The Troy Dixie Minor Rookies got their quest for a state tournament title off to a good start with a 19-9 win over Millbrook in the first round Friday night at Gattman Park in Muscle Shoals.

Troy went to the whip early, scoring six runs in the top of the first, putting Millbrook in a six-run hole before ever getting a chance to grab the sticks.

Troy Dixie Minor Rookies head coach Chris Huner said that getting a lead early is big for a team’s success.

“I always like to bat first at this age level,” Huner said. “The kids like to bat and score early, and if you can set the tempo in the first, it can help you through the next innings.”

Troy pounded out 11 hits, including three from Rodarius Christian. Brady Huner and Noah Prestwood each had two base knocks. Nathan Braisted, Skylar Kidd, DeAndrey Henderson and Laquavin Rodgers each had one base hit for Troy.

“I was a little surprised to come ou and score 19 runs in the first game,” Huner said. “I knew we had the ability to do it. I’m proud of the way they hit the ball well, and hopefully we can keep it up for the next few days.”

On the hill, Troy used three pitchers to handcuff Millbrook to just five hits.

Kidd went two innings, and Hunter Keenan and J.D. Wilson each worked one inning on the mound for Troy.

“We had a two hour rain delay, and even played some in the rain. We had a couple of errors, but played well overall.”

Huner said the team will enjoy the win for a little while, but be back ready to play on Saturday morning.

“We will enjoy it a little,” Huner said. “We will grab some dinner and do a little swimming, but we are taking batting practice at 10:30 a.m.”

Troy will play Fairhope National Saturday at 5 P.m.