The Lorain County Ironmen battled the league-leading Paints, but came up short 5-1 in Chillicothe on Friday night, falling to 8-13 on the season.

Avon Lake’s Nick Hamilton drove home Stephen Hagen on a fielder’s choice for an early 1-0 lead, but that was the only lead the Ironmen held.

Aaron Hilt (Ashland University) started and threw seven innings, allowing three runs, three walks, while striking out seven batters.

Hagen paced the Ironmen offense with two hits. Austin Ingraham stayed hot and delivered two hits as well.The Ironmen will be back at the Pipe Yard on Saturday to face the Springfield Sliders at 7:05 p.m.