VIDALIA — With an outstanding pitching performance by Trey Brasher and a two home run effort by Mason Ozburn, the Vidalia Vikings cruised to an 8-1 District 3-3A win over the visiting Bunkie Panthers Thursday afternoon.

“We pitched well, got good hits, and played good defense,” Vidalia head coach Johnny Lee Hoffpauir said. “I’m proud of this team.”

Vidalia (12-5, 5-1) opened the game with a solo home run by Ozburn in the first inning to give the Vikings an early one-run lead.

Ozburn then blasted a grand slam home run over the right-centerfield fence and increased the Vidalia lead to five runs.

“Mason did a great job for us tonight,” Hoffpauir said.

After Bunkie walked in a run, Ozburn hit into a fielder’s choice in the sixth inning to drive in another run for the Vikings.

Tyler Gagnard hit a solo home run off Brasher in the top of the seventh inning, but it wasn’t enough for the Panthers and the Vikings took the win.

“It was the best all-around game we have played all year,” Hoffpauir said. “I’ve said all along that this bunch is hard working, and it’s starting to pay off. This is a great way to start off the second half of our district schedule.”

With the victory, Vidalia remains in first place in their district standings.

Brasher earned the win for Vidalia and Nick Mose was dealt the loss for Bunkie.

Ozburn batted 2-for-3 with his two home runs and six RBIs.

Davis Steele had a 2-for-3 effort for Bunkie with two singles in the losing effort.

Vidalia travels Saturday to face Jena High School in a non-district matchup.