The Las Plumas Thunderbirds are headed to the championship game after a thrilling 7-6 victory over East Nicolaus in eight innings on Thursday.

Las Plumas fell behind early, trailing 2-0, but quickly answered when Marli Benedict blasted a two-run home run to even the score. The Thunderbirds kept the momentum going in the following inning as Reagan Johnson launched a three-run homer, giving Las Plumas a 6-2 advantage.

East Nicolaus refused to go away, battling back to tie the game and force extra innings. With the score deadlocked in the eighth, the Thunderbirds delivered when it mattered most. Jayce Long came through with a clutch base hit with two runners on base, allowing Rylee McInturf to race home with the game-winning run and set off a celebration.

Kyler Storey once again led the way in the circle, pitching another strong game and earning the victory.

With the win, Las Plumas advances to the championship game, where the Thunderbirds will face Chico with a title on the line.