Mike Vukovcan Ambridge– Hopewell entered today’s game knowing they up against a top-flight pitcher in Ambridge’s Joe Leseiko so scoring opportunities would likely be limited.
Unfortunately for Hopewell, Leseiko was on his game as Ambridge defeated Hopewell, 3-1.
Hopewell softball and youth baseball is sponsored by Lisa McCoy, your neighborhood State Farm agent.
Leseiko kept the Vikings hitless until the 5th inning when James Armstrong delivered a 2-out single. He pitched a complete game allowing 2 hits, 1 earned run, 0 walks and 9 strikeouts.
Hopewell hot on the scoreboard in the 7th inning when senior catcher Charlie Smetana connected on a HR to center. Smetana continues to provide power and drive in runs, that HR was his 6th RBI on the season.
Despite the loss, senior left-hander Ben McDonald had an above average start, pitching 6 innings, allowing 5 hits, 3 earned runs, while striking out 7 batters.
McDonald’s performance allowed Hopewell to stay in the game as they trailed just 1-0 heading to the 6th inning.
These two teams will play game two of the series tomorrow as Kingston Krotec will get the start. First pitch from Hopewell High School will be at 4 PM.
