The Emery Spartans were held to just two hits as they suffered a 2-1 loss to the Gunnison Bulldogs on the road Friday afternoon, resulting in a season series sweep.

Trailing 2-0 entering the sixth inning, Emery senior Bryce Dugmore knocked a triple and eventually scored to chop the lead in half. That’s as close as the Spartans would get dropping to 1-4 in region play with their second loss in four days to Gunnison.

Tel Gardner logged the loss on the hill despite a complete game effort. Giving up just five hits during the contest, Gardner recorded four strikeouts. Parx Bartholomew earned the win for the Bulldogs and ace Drew Hill finished the game in a relief effort. 

“We did play well, we just needed to have one hit fall,” said manager Steve Gordon. “ We hit some good shots right at them.”

Tristan Deabenderser registered Emery’s other hit, lacing a single. Friday’s loss marked the fifth time this season the Spartans have been held to one run or less in a setback. 

With just five region games remaining on the season, the Spartans trail San Juan by two games for the final playoff spot in the division. Emery and and San Juan split the season set as both teams managed wins on the road.

Emery will look to get back on track when they travel to meet North Sevier Tuesday for the first of two meetings this week. The Spartans will break from league action on Wednesday to face Union, before once again meeting North Sevier on Thursday.