Huntingdon Valley (HV) used a 5 run 5th inning to win its season opener over Southampton (SH) 7-5 in a rain shortened game. The game was halted with 1 out in the 7th inning due to a lightning strike. HV received strong pitching from Dan Johnson (4IP, 3hits, ER, 4Ks) and Ross Goodman (2 IP 5Ks) along with a great offensive game by Nick Rittler (3 for 4).
"For the first game of the season I thought we looked very sloppy" Coach Evan Horn said "For us to make 5 errors we where very fortunate to come away with a victory. If not for the great pitching by Johnson and Goodman we are looking at a loss for sure"
HV struck first in the top of the first inning when Jake Yannessa (1 for 2, RBI, 2 runs scored) singled up the middle to plate Rittler who earlier singled and stole second base.
"Great sign to see Ness (Yannessa) come through on his first at bat. He has added insentive this season and I expect a lot out of him. Truly a great kid and a joy to Coach"
HV lost the lead quick as its defense made errors and didnt help the pitchers. HV was very lucky to be only trailing 5-2 entering the 5th inning. In the 5th inning HV plated 5 runs with the use of hits by Rittler, Team Captain Jake Madnick and Mario Incollingo. The biggest hit of the game and inning came off the bat of Jordan Pocrass who lined a 2 run single up the middle to but HV in the lead to stay.
"The 5th inning was an inning I expect every game" Horn said laughing "We cant play catch up all season that is for sure. The hit by Pocrass was the game winner and to see it come from him is exciting. Your talking about a kid that loves the games and has both ears wide open learning it"
After the 5th inning HV turned the ball over to Goodman. Goodman faced 7 batters the rest of the way and retired all of them in order with 5 strikeouts.
"Chips (Goodman) really came to play today that is for sure" Horn continued "For him to throw that well is a huge plus for our team. I didnt expect him to strike out 5 batters but more like all 7 hitters he faced but I will settle for the 5"
HV is at it again tomorrow HOME against a tough Warminster team 5:00 Lower Moreland Varsity Baseball Field
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