Eric Howard pitched six strong innings and also blasted a three-run, bases-clearing hit in a seven-run third inning as the Elks took a 1-0 lead in the best-of-three Newton Babe Ruth semifinals with a 9-2 victory over the Auburndale Warriors last night at Albemarle Park.
Howard struck out five and allowed only one earned run.
Howard's big hit in the third was followed by a sacrifice fly from Hector Coscione. Kyle Krasker then blew open the game with a two-run double in the frame.
The Warriors came back with two in the fifth as Jack McLaughlin hit an RBI single, but the Elks responded with two more in the sixth for the final margin.
Dan Okren had two hits for the Elks, while McLaughlin went 3-for-3 for the Warriors.
Game 2 of the series is tonight at 8 at Albemarle Park.
Avalon Angels 6, Carson Post 5
Jack St. Clair went the distance, allowing three hits, with eight strikeouts as the Avalon Angels knocked off Carson Post in Game 1 of their best-of-three series at Albemarle.
St. Clair also had three RBI for the Angels, who plated the game-winning run in the seventh when Lucas Mosca walked, stole second and scored on an error.
Game 2 is tonight at Albemarle (5:30).
