Mon, Nov 8, 2021 3:47 PM

Softballers back at the park

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Peter Jones

Inter-city club softball returned to Marlborough on Saturday when the local Saints side took on top Nelson combination, Stoke Eagles, in a double-header at Lansdowne Park.

After a lengthy absence of top-level matches, Saints relished the opportunity to host the Eagles, who were spearheaded by former Southern Pride Pitcher Riley Power.

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The Saints and Eagles teams line-up before the start of Saturday's double-header. Photo supplied.

Fielding a new-look mix of youth and experience, Saints lost the first match 7-2 and the second 13-8 - but were competitive in both.

In the first, they drew level 2-2 in the top of the fifth, through runs to Callum Hayton and Anaru Anderson, before Eagles moved clear in the ensuing two innings.

Young Saints’ pitcher Willem Hayton faced a tough baptism against some accomplished Eagles hitters but came through in fine style. His in-fielders provided strong back-up with some slick glove work while the outfielders were reliable and energetic on a cold afternoon.

In the second clash Eagles led by five runs after two innings, but runs to Tyler Bird, Drew Roberts and Callum Hayton saw the home side again close the gap.

Four runs in the bottom of the third allowed Eagles to fly clear again but Braden Healy, Bird, Roberts and Jamie Blake crossed the home plate soon after to underline the home side’s fortitude and potential.

Saints’ coach Darren Aldridge said it took some time for his side to adjust to the standard of pitching but suggested it was reassuring that they were finally able get some hits.

“It was just great to see senior ball being played at the park again,” he added.

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