Atlantic got behind early and Denison continued to put runners on to beat the Trojans 15-2 in five innings in the Class 3-A District 15 semi-finals Saturday.

After rain moved the game back to Saturday, Denison looked ready and was aggressive early.  Swinging at several first pitches, the Monarchs put up three runs in the top of the first inning, with Jade Magnussen providing the first of his big hits with a two run triple.  Atlantic answered with two runs of their own in the bottom of the first, as Mason Goergen singled and eventually scored on a wild pitch and Chase Mullenix hit an RBI single.

But that was as close as the Trojans would get, as Denison scored one in the second, three more in the third and blew the game wide open in the fourth, sending 14 men to the plate and scoring eight runs.  Magnussen’s three run homer was the big blow.

Mullenix was the starter and loser for Atlantic, throwing 2 2/3 inning giving up seven runs, four earned, six hits, striking out two and walking three.  Coach Gaylord Schelling said his pitcher was constantly in the zone and Denison was ready.

The Monarchs scored their 15 runs on 11 hits , 5 walks and three batters were hit by pitches.

Dawson Dorhout pitched all five innings for Denison to get the win.  Dorhout gave up just two runs and four hits, struck out four and walked two.

Atlantic finishes the year 15-13.

Denison advances to the district final Monday night with a mark of 17-18.