Published Wednesday, May 07, 2008 10:43 AM
Updated Wednesday, May 07, 2008 10:43 AM
Stratford’s Aaron Preston hits a single to leftfield during the Knights’ victory over Wando.
Stratford takes 2-1 extra inning victory over Wando
It was another nail biter for Stratford Monday night.
With their playoff hopes on the line after a 5-4 loss to Summerville Saturday, the Knights took a 2-1 victory over visiting Wando.
Stratford put its first run on the board in the bottom of the fifth, chaining together two singles by Tyler Hill and Kyle Legette with a walk to load the bases with two outs.
A single into right field drove in Stratford’s first run and gave the Knights the lead.
After a Wando single combined with a sacrifice bunt and a double put a Warrior runner on third, an error at first cost the Knights their lead and tied the game in the top of the sixth.
“Errors can really cost you at this point in the season,” Stratford Head Coach John Chalus said. “We can’t let things like that happen if we want to continue to win.”
Both the Knights and the Warriors went three and out in the seventh. Stratford pitcher Chris Hanna struck out eight with no walks.
In the bottom of the eighth, Stratford’s Patrick Limehouse slammed a double to centerfield to get into scoring position. Aaron Preston was walked and a bunt by Mecho Bohren loaded the bases with no outs before the game was delayed due to rain.
After the Knights returned to the field, Hill popped a line drive over second base to send home Limehouse and claim the win for Stratford.
“It was another close one out there tonight,” Chalus said. “It came down to the wire but we were able to pull together and get a victory over some tough competition.
“Our pitching was good and our defense did play a solid game. The most important thing we have to work on now is minimizing errors because they can really kill your chances at a win.”
Stratford next scheduled game was against the Green Wave in Summerville Wednesday.