Feb. 23, 2008

Final Stats

Moraga, CA - In a gloomy morning game of a scheduled double header strong relief pitching helped the Towson Tigers (1-1) defeat Saint Mary's (1-1) 4-2 at Louis Guisto Field. SMC scored first and led most of the game, but the Tigers bullpen and an eighth inning rally was the difference in the game.

The Gaels received another strong performance from its starting pitcher. Making his Saint Mary's debut junior Brian Justice threw 6.2 innings surrendering five hits, two earned runs and two walks, while striking out nine.

Towson took control of the game with an eighth inning rally when senior Brian Conley singled to right field, junior Matt Collins followed that with a double off pitcher Alex Jensen (0-1) to score Conley and put the Tigers ahead for good. The Tigers were not finished however, as junior Jason Stifler singled through the right side scoring Collins to make it 4-2.

The Tigers were able hold on to the lead through the efforts of freshman Spencer Patton (1-0), who came into the game in relief for sophomore starter Zach Umberger. Patton pitched 2.1 strong innings, giving up one hit and two walks, while striking out one and retiring seven of nine batters he faced.

The game was closed out by Tigers bullpen ace senior Jon Dupski, who came in the ninth and closed out the game for his first save of the season.

The Gaels saw another strong performance at the plate from sophomore Anthony Aliotti who 2-for-3 with an RBI, it was Aliotti's second RBI of the season. Also continuing to play well from the plate was sophomore Kyle Jensen who doubled again, giving him two on the season.

Towson's senior first baseman Greg Furmanek continued his strong start to the season going 2-for-4 with a double and an RBI, giving him five for the season. In 10 at bats, Furmanek has four hits and eight total bases.

The Gaels and Tigers look to finish the series Sunday, February 24, starting at 11 AM at Louis Guisto Field, weather permitting. SMC and Towson will attempt to complete the third game of the series, which was suspended when rain hit on Saturday. The score is tied 2-2 heading into the top of the fourth inning.