Report from Herts Baseball Newswire correspondent, DAVE HAMILTON
The Herts Hawks continued their dominance over division rivals the Brentwood Stags last Sunday with a 9-3 victory in blazing hot sunshine at Brentwood. This victory lifts them to third place in the AA division, with a clash against second place Bournemouth their next fixture.
Despite their comfortable victory a week earlier, the Hawks were under no illusions they would be in for an easy game, and so it proved, with the first two innings being scoreless. The Stags pitcher breezed through the Hawks order the first time around, with only catcher Dave Westfallen having any success as he smashed a booming double to right center field. However, the Hawks took the lead in the third with a critical two out rally that produced four runs, helped by an RBI single from stand in manager John Oliver.
The Hawks then extended their lead in the fourth, as the pitcher struggled for control, a two run double from Louie Hare being the highlight. Further runs were to follow from the Hawks, while in the field Hare was producing a pitching masterclass, as the Stags barely threatened to score.
Both teams were helped by some dazzling defensive plays, with shortstop Luis Concalves athleticism for the Hawks being matched by his Brentwood counterpart.
Entering the bottom of the ninth with a 9-0 lead, unfortunately Louie was unable to complete the shut-out he so richly deserved. Unsurprisingly tired after pitching in such oppressive heat, he conceded three hits in the inning which, together with a fielding error led to three consolation runs for the Stags.
Overall though, Herts produced a very professional performance, and will be looking to carry the form from this performance into their next game against the Bournemouth Sharks. And having now played in a full range of conditions over the past few weeks, the Hawks will be ready whatever the weather on the south coast!