Wednesday, July 16, 2008

Generals Over Giants, 4-1

In a tight pitchers duel throughout, the Generals were able to fend off the Giants for a 4-1 victory. Jon Jackson scattered 6 hits while picking up the complete game win. Luke Deschamps pitched great for the Giants, going the distance as well, but was charged with the loss.

Both pitchers were on early, keeping their opponents scoreless until the fifth inning. Bryan Vitale delivered a 2-out single that plated Justin Tilley (2-2, SB, R, RBI) to break the ice for the Generals. In the bottom of the fifth the Giants threatened to tie the score on a Hobin single to right. O'Leary was able to throw out the tying run at the plate ending the inning and preserving the lead.

The Generals extended the lead to 2-0 in the sixth with a nicely executed double steal. Tim O'Leary scored on the play. Beverly cut the lead in half in their half of the sixth. Hartunian (2-3, R) scored on a Barricelli fielder's choice. The Generals really lucked out as the hot shot ricocheted off Jackson on the mound bouncing right to first to record the out. Only one scored on the play where surely a second run would have come around had the ball made it through the middle.

The Generals added two insurance runs in the seventh. Tom Jones scored on a close play at the plate after an attempted double play throw got away at first. Tilley then added a bases loaded HBP to bring home Funchion. Jackson retired the side in order in the bottom of the seventh securing the complete game win. Jackson and the Generals defense were solid all night while the Giants were able to match it. Hamilton was able to capitalize on a few breaks that made the difference in this game. The rematch is scheduled for next Tuesday at Patton Park. In the meantime the Generals face Ipswich tonight at Patton, 5:45pm while the Giants head to Ipswich Friday night for a make-up game.