In what felt like a playoff game, the Manchester/Essex Mariners were able to edge the Hamilton Generals by a score of 2-1. Stout went 6 innings for the Mariners while only allowing 1 run. Gibbon came in for the save in the seventh. Mike Drinkwater pitched six strong for the Generals to earn a no-decision. Judd Funchion was charged with the tough luck loss in one inning of work.
The Generals scored first in the bottom of the second inning. A Mark Potter RBI infield single plated Andre Painchaud from third. Two innings later Nate Bertolino had a solo HR off Drinkwater for his only blemish on the day. With the score tied at one heading into the seventh, Drinkwater gave way to Judd Funchion. With the bases loaded and no outs the Generals were able cut down a runner at the plate. Funchion then was able to induce another grounder but the Generals were unable to convert a double play allowing the go ahead run to score on the back end.
The Generals were able to get the tying run on second with one out in the bottom of the seventh, but Gibbon was able to lock down the save and the win for the Mariners. Both teams threatened throughout the game but stellar pitching and defense prevailed in this closely contested battle. A great game all around.
