YSA: Hounds Show True Grit

The third game of the YSA season brought us to Central Park's Great Lawn. An overcast sky with threats of rain was the setting, and we knew with the late start time, it would be tricky to get all 7 innings in. Our opponents were the Bombers and they came ready for a fight. We had a phenomenal turnout though and came into the game playing some very solid softball.

As the away team yet again, we came up to bat first. The Bombers' pitcher was erratic as she would be throughout the game. She walked 4 batters in the inning but we were unable to score more than one run, a bases loaded opportunity being squandered. Our ace Juiena was our starting pitcher and she asserted her command early with a scoreless 1st. As the game proceeded, it was clear that this would be a tight encounter. The Bombers lived up to their name by hitting a couple of deep home runs, while we played small ball and grinded out our runs. Both teams exchanged blows and we entered the top of the 5th tied at 6-6. There was tension in the air as the clubs had exchanged some mild words throughout the course of the game. The umpire made it be known that this would be the last inning, as visibility was near zero. It was the appropriate call. Fortunately, we chose that last inning to score 4 big runs. Clutch hits were made by Pat, JT, Jessie, and Dave. Now we were up 10-6 and had to like our chances with our ace still firmly in control. Sure enough, Juice closed out the Bombers in the bottom of the 5th for the complete-game victory. Final Score: Hounds 10, Bombers 6. The night was capped with some libations at Soldier McGee's.

This was one of the best Hounds wins ever. This Bombers team had a stacked lineup, it was almost like we were playing co-ed versus all dudes. I am proud of the way we hung in there and fought our way to victory. Also, we showed we have a balanced attack and can beat teams in many different ways. We won this game tonight with our defense and heads-up baserunning, plain and simple. Our momentum is clearly building, and we are a difficult opponent for any team right now.