Ilion Takes Game 1 vs. Little Falls

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Ilion Takes Game 1 vs. Little Falls

Brian Sandler

Story Created: Jul 24, 2008 at 11:15 PM EST

Story Updated: Jul 25, 2008 at 12:02 AM EST


ILION, N.Y. -- Great pitching, one clutch hit, and taking advantage of errors sent Ilion to a 5-0 victory over Little Falls Thursday night in Game 1 of the Herkimer County American Legion Tournament Finals, putting the eight-time defending champion just one win away from a nine-peat in the best-of-three series.

Despite having at least one baserunner on in eight of the nine innings, Matt Gonyea threw a complete game gem, allowing just four hits and two walks and striking out 15. His offense gave him all the support he'd need in the sixth thanks in large part to three Little Falls errors.

After starting pitcher Devin Manuzza walked leadoff hitter Brett Leon, an error by Manuzza on a sacrifice bunt by Dan Crim put runners on first and second. Another sacrifice bunt moved the runners to second and third, then another walk to Jim Traglia loaded the bases for John LeClair. LeClair promptly singled up the middle, scoring Leon and Crim for a 2-0 lead.

Little Falls' defense then completely broke down. During the next at-bat, Traglia stole third and LeClair made a late break for second. Catcher Jordan Gross tried to get LeClair but threw wild, sending Traglia home. Centerfielder Paul Barnes tried to throw out Traglia at the plate, which sent LeClair to third, but the throw went to the backstop, allowing Traglia to score and bringing in LeClair for a 4-0 lead.

Manuzza then caused a stir by hitting the next two batters, and was pulled during the middle of an at-bat in the seventh after arguing a ball call with the home plate umpire. He threw 6.1 innings, allowing five runs (two earned) on four hits, seven walks and two hit batters and struck out eight.

Ilion will go for its ninth straight tournament title and 14th in the last 16 years in Game 2 at Little Falls Friday at 7:00. If Little Falls can stave off elimination--and it did give Ilion its only league loss this season--Game 3 will be back at Ilion Saturday at 7:00.

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