The Lions became the “Town Champs” of Rutherford’s Little League by defeating a tough B. Altman team in the Town Series.
The Lions hitters broke loose with 25 runs and 27 hits in 2 games.
The first game ended in a 6-6 tie after 7 innings. For the Lions it was Bernie Good with 2 hits and 2 RBI’s and Steve McAuley with 2 hits who did most of the damage. But, it was Shawn Mahoney’s second hit of the game with 2 outs in the last inning that sent it into overtime.
Bernie Good pitched a strong six innings while striking out 12 Altman batters.
Tom O’Brien had 2 hits for B. Altman while Bill Furrer chipped in with timely hitting.
In the first official game, it was Corey Nydegger who played the hero for the Lions. With 2 outs in the last inning, Corey lined a double to right field to drive in the tieing and winning runs, with Joe DeCandia scoring the decisive tally. The final score was 11-10.
Bernie Good struck out 11 batters in going the distance. He also went 3 for 3 at bat with 5 RBI’s.
Shawn Mahoney had another 2 hits for the Lions.
Tom O’Brien had 2 home runs and 5 RBI’s in a losing cause for B. Altman.
The next game was the Lions all the way. Brian Good gave up just 3 hits (2 to Tom O’Brien) and struck out 7 batters in giving the Lions a 14-7 victory and the Town Championship.
Brian was helped by brother Bernie’s 2 hits, 3 RBI’s and 2 run homer.
Jimmy McGuire had 3 hits, while Shawn Mahoney, Tony Azzolini, and Louie Ferullo and 2 hits apiece for the winners.
The Lions were helped all around by Billy Zika, Mike Williams, Dave Plarre, Jimmy La Faso and little Walter Gonzales as they ended the season with a 15-2 record.
The coaching staff of the Lions would like to congratulate David Wernicki and Steve Azzolini who did a fine job as bat-boys. They would especially like to thank the parents of the boys for their tremendous support and enthusiasm shown throughout the season.