WESSON — Both the Natchez Dixie Youth Nationals and Americans All-Star teams earned wins Wednesday, setting up a showdown between the two at 7:30 p.m. tonight in Wesson.

The Natchez Americans blew out Copiah County 18-1, while the Natchez Nationals defeated Franklin County 10-2. Both coaches for the coach pitch teams credited their defenses for leading their teams to victory.

“They were extremely focused, and they were (eager) to take the field after having a rainout last night,” Americans coach Justin Robinson said.

“They played error-free baseball, and that’s what won the game. Copiah was a good team, they just had some bad breaks and couldn’t complete some routine plays.”

Nationals coach Michael Petty, meanwhile, said his players realized the value of practicing after Wednesday’s win.

“It was a tough game,” Petty said. “(Franklin County was) a pretty tough little team. We hit the ball very well tonight, and our defense stepped up and played.

“I think the kids figured out practices made it worth while. I could see the joy in their faces (while they played).”

Eli Moore and Joseph Bumgarner both homered for the Americans. Parker Robinson, Ashton Gibson, Sam Mosby and Decobus Jackson all hit doubles. Robinson and Chase Kaiser were both 3-for-3.

For the Nationals, Matt Petty hit a triple and a double. Johnathan Franklin and Will Porcell both doubled.

Justin Robinson said he’s not looking forward to his team having to face off against their Nationals counterparts.

“I hate it, because they’re all from Natchez, and I know all those kids,” Robinson said. “I hate that one of us will have a loss after the game.

“No matter which team gets the loss, though, both are very competitive teams, so I expect them to bring their best (tonight).”

Michael Petty said he’s going to approach tonight’s game just like any other.

“We’re going to play as best we can,” Petty said. “We know every kid on the other team, and we’re looking forward to it. Everyone’s exited.”