Martin County scores three runs in the 7th to claim Game 1
Hawks Humbled by Tigers in a Game of Unexpected Turns
Viera Hawks tried to bring home the win in their first Regional Semifinals clash, but the Martin County Tigers snatched a 5‑2 victory at the beautiful USSSA Field on Wednesday night.
What Went Down?
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Early Sparks – Both teams set the ball rolling in the first inning.
• Dalton French, a senior for Martin County, launched a right‑field drive that sent Spencer Preston home.
• The Hawks answered quickly, with sophomore Zak Al‑Arashi grabbing an RBI single to tie the score at 1‑1. -
Mid‑Game Power – A few innings later, Zane Moody crushed a right‑field wall and veteran Kamai Purce ran all the way from first.
• A triple from Moody put him on third base, threatening to extend the lead, but starting pitcher Brennan Confreda defended the run. -
Second‑Half Rally – In the bottom half, senior captain Dominic Leoni hit a double with two runners on.
• A fast throw to home allowed just a single RBI, keeping the game level at 2‑2. -
Seventh‑Inning Magic – The Tigers’ offense stepped up:
• Gary Keats (senior) walked twice, then blasted an RBI single to give the Tigers a 3‑2 edge.
• Tanner Paskoski followed with a drive that brought in two more for a 5‑2 lead. - Hawks’ Final Push – The Hawks tried to close the gap, but reliever Joseph Cuccurullo dominated the bottom of the seventh, striking out the side and sealing a 1‑0 series advantage for Martin County.
Next Step: Game 2 Tonight
The Viera Hawks and Martin County Tigers return to the same field at 7 p.m. for a decisive Game 2. Will the Hawks snap this shutout streak? Only time—and a few more powerful swings—will tell.