The Express got out to a big lead against the Thunder Bay Border Cats, leading by as many as six runs.

But by the top of the ninth, the Border Cats were within one, leading Dale Varsho to call Kole Calhoun to the mound for the first time this season.

Calhoun, the Express' Star Closer from last season preserved the outcome for Eau Claire, earning a save in the 7-6 win.

The win makes two straight for the Express, who play again at Thunder Bay Saturday night before a Sunday road game against the La Crosse Loggers.