CRUSADERS RALLY IN MUST-WIN CONTEST
Catholic High tops Holy Names 8-5
TROY, N.Y.>> Catholic Central came into Tuesday needing to win its final three games in order to be eligible for the Section II playoffs.
It entered the sixth inning needing a run just to tie the score. And even with some baserunning blunders, the Crusaders were able to push across four runs. The game-winning sac fly came from Madison Miller. And with an 8-5 Senior Day win over Watervliet, CCHS kept its postseason hopes alive for at least another game.
“Being Senior Day, they kind of dug down deep and battled through,” Crusaders head coach John Squadrito said. “And they pulled it off. We basically have to run the table to make it into sectionals.”
The Crusaders jumped out to a 4-1 lead in the first inning, started off by a leadoff triple from catcher Erin Kelley. The first four batters all came around to score. But Watervliet rallied right back in the third inning, punctuated by a home run from first baseman Ali Changa.
The win improved Catholic Central to 5- 6 on the season. Watervliet dropped to 1-8. The Crusaders next chance to get to .500 will come on Thursday against Schalmont.
“I think this gave us some momentum, carrying us forward,” said Miller, a senior. “It just re-
minded us that we can all play as a team and it’s really fun.”
The first three batters reached base in the bottom of the sixth. Jen Picarelli had the game-tying
hit by pitch. Then Miller gave CCHS the lead with her fly ball.
Alex Ortiz, the ninthplace hitter, hit a two-run single right after to give the Crusaders some insurance on its lead.
Miller called the moment of coming up with the bases loaded and a chance to get a win as
one of the highlights of her season. She was able to capitalize on the opportunity.
Throughout the game, there had been great defensive plays, including both shortstops making diving plays and a nice short-hop pick in the dirt. But on offense, it came down to one big chance for Miller, and she wouldn’t let it go to waste.
“It is a pretty good moment,” Squadrito said. “I’m happy for them. I’m happy a senior pulled it out and had a key for them. Most of the seniors that were up were patient and drew walks or base hits. I’m very happy that they dug down deep.”