Stockton Grizzlies - Long Eaton
Match report brought to you by Rugby Taekwondo Academy!!
This past weekend the Stockton Grizzlies welcomed the Long Eaton Chasers into the Den.
As the clock struck noon, the Chasers got off to a good start with a string of clever AB's and the Grizzlies still finding their feet. A maiden voyage on the mound for US international John Lutz and he didn't disappoint, closing out the 1st with only that solitary run across.
Bottom of the second and Stockton exploded into life putting a fast few singles on the paths, to be driven home by a hard hit ground rule double in the heart of the order. Patient and punishing AB's left the score at 4-1 after the third out.
Long Eaton had no intention of taking this lying down and immediately fired back with 5 runs of their own. Lutz wasn't getting an easy ride for his first time on the bump. This had all the makings of a good old fashioned barn burner.
Bottom of the 2nd and the Grizzlies double their score with more impressive plate appearances. A tight but consistent zone had both pitchers walking a fine line between a ball outside and easy pickings. Rather those two brave souls than me...
The third innings brought yet more runs on both sides with the bats as hot as they come. 7 runs for the Chasers crossed the plate, followed by a double digits 10 (you heard me TEN) scored by your ruthless Grizzly Bears.
Ahead of the 4th inning, manager Millward looked to the bench and made an inspired all American switch up on the mound, with Ryan Mushinski coming in to ice the opposition, getting all three outs with not a single run across. No backup was required with the game MVP then putting himself and the Grizz way out in front after yet another 6 runs tallied. Bottom of the 4th and the score stands at 24-13.
Sadly the fifth inning brought the game to an unfortunate end. After fighting hard and scratching up 3 runs in a bid to extend the game, one Long Eaton player slid awkwardly into 3rd base while stealing and badly injured his ankle. With serious medical attention required, the captains decided that the game would be called there and then, with the scores as they stood. 24-16
A win is a win and we can be proud of a very solid performance. But I can speak for all players across the league when I say that this isn't how you want any game to end. All our very best wishes go out to the player involved and we hope you heal up quickly so we can go again later this year.
A great game with a good bunch, both teams included.
Next game sees Stockton take on the Birmingham Metalheads @ Marston Green. 7/7/24.
