ESOX 4, Hopkins 1
Edina notched its third consecutive Riverview victory, fourth overall, by defeating Hopkins 4-1 at Big Willow Wednesday night. The ESox offense was virtually non-existent for 6 innings before tying the game in the 7th and holding on in the 8th.
Starting pitcher George Jensen allowed 3 hits and struck out 12 batters in a very sharp effort. Starting catcher Matt Hulmer called and caught a very good game against a hard throwing Jensen. The ESox could only muster four hits in six innings against Hopkins starter Matt McDonald, who currently pitches for Mankato. Dallas Jagelia had two hits, Reggie Dunlop and Erik Quarberg each had a hit through 6 innings.
With Hopkins leading 1-0 heading into the 7th inning, it was do-or-die time for the ESox offense who would otherwise waste a great pitching effort by Jensen. Centerfielder Matt Keys laced a leadoff single to left field to begin the rally. Pinch hitter Aaron Schmitz was called upon to bunt Keys to second base, which he did successfully. Reggie Dunlop, the next hitter, could not drive Keys home but did advance him to 3rd base in the process of a ground out to 2nd. Bobby Gregoire hustled out an infield hit to score Keys from 3rd and force extra innings.
In the 8th inning, Kirk Kenneally and Brashad Johnson reached base, allowing clean-up hitter Erik Quarberg to bat. Erik launched a three run homer well over the left field fence giving Edina a 4-1 lead. The ESox held on in the bottom of the 8th inning to win the game 4-1. They go for the season sweep when they host Hopkins at Braemar tomorrow night.