by Joe Gray
All eyes were on Roundshaw, South London, last Sunday as the CROYDON PIRATES hosted the LONDON METS in what was a repeat of last year’s final. Both teams included several new faces, and it was two of the METS’ additions that impressed most. Brian Essery struck out 15 batters over 7 innings in game 1 (a 5-2 win for the METS in 7 innings), while Troy Kantor notched up 11 strikeouts in 5 innings’ work in the second game (a 10-1 win for the METS in 7 innings). Both pitchers gave up just one earned run. Ernesto Bolufer‘s two strikeouts in relief of Kantor saw the METS’ total on the day climb to 28. First baseman Josh Chetwynd led the way with the bat for the METS, going 6-for-8.
There were some positive signs for the PIRATES. New catcher Kieran Clackett looked very comfortable behind the plate, while last year’s national batting champion, Ryan Barwick, hit a home run in his first at-bat and a double in his second. He also homered in game 2, ending up 4-for-6 with 11 total bases. In addition, Jared Uys pitched a complete game in his debut, conceding just three earned runs.
Elsewhere, the RICHMOND FLAMES swept the BRACKNELL BLAZERS in the other National League South games on Sunday, while in the National League North, the MANCHESTER EAGLES were awarded two victories against the MENWITH HILL PATRIOTS as a result of the latter’s forfeit.
| Time | Home | Visitor | Result | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sunday, April 20 2008 | ||||
 |
12:00 | Manchester Eagles | Menwith Hill Patriots | 07:00 |
|
12:00 | Croydon Pirates | London Mets | 02:05 (7) |
|
12:00 | Bracknell Blazers | Richmond Flames | 08:14 (7) |
|
14:30 | Manchester Eagles | Menwith Hill Patriots | 07:00 |
|
14:30 | Croydon Pirates | London Mets | 01:10 (7) |
|
14:30 | Bracknell Blazers | Richmond Flames | 05:13 (7) |
