Chargers Defeat Chaffey by 5 Runs

CYPRESS, CA- The Cypress Chargers (2-0, 0-0 OEC) scored double digits against Chaffey Panthers (1-1, 0-0 SCC), 12-7. 

The Chargers remained home after an exciting season opener walk-off win against Pasadena City on Friday. To start Tuesday's matchup, Chaffey and Cypress exchanged a run in the first. From two hits, the Panthers were able to tally the scoreboard to take an early lead. However, the Chargers did not hesitate in their first opportunity up to bat. The first pitch Jack Burke saw at the top of the lineup, he sent over the left-center wall for a lead-off home run. A quick run for the home team tied the game at one apiece. 

In the second, Chaffey threatened as they loaded the bases with two outs. On an incredible effort, Robert Pitts dove head first in center field to make the catch and end the inning. While the Panthers left three runners stranded, three Chargers managed to cross the plate in the bottom of the second. Ryan Skjonsby laced a double to earn two RBI's and extend Cypress's lead. An error allowed Burke to score the third run of the inning and put the home team up, 4-1. 

Chaffey would again leave runners on in the third and Cypress would extend their lead further. A two out rally saw Pitts single, Burke walk and Evan Rolbiecke walk for bases loaded. Skjonsby stepped up to the plate and smacked a line drive over the right field wall for a grand slam. Cypress hit their second home run of the game and grew the lead, 8-1.  

The Chargers would take advantage of a Chaffey error to score a ninth run in the fourth frame. Burke would score another run on a fielder choice to get Cypress double digits on the scoreboard, 10-1. On a passed ball and fielder's choice, the Panthers tallied two runs in the fifth. Cypress responded right back with a run from an Albert De La Rosa double. Chaffey would tally four more runs while the home team managed one more score. Cypress would take the win to earn their second win of the season, 12-7.

Jack Burke had an explosive start to the game with a home run as he earned two RBIs and two walks. Skjonsby went 3-4 with 6 RBIs and a run scored while De La Rosa went 2-4 with 2 RBIs. Hunter Drake started the game and earned the win with 3.0 innings pitched and only allowed two hits. The Chargers advanced to 2-0 in their overall record. 

UP NEXT: The Chargers will stay home for a two game series against Folsom Lake on Friday, February 2nd. First pitch will be at 2pm. 

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