HERALDS LOSE LEAD LATE TO FALL TO SKIPPERS

Fairport Harbor, OH- Despite amassing 12 hits, the St. John Heralds suffered a narrow 9-8 defeat against the Fairport Skippers on Tuesday. Alyssa Cevera stood out for the Heralds, delivering an impressive four-hit performance.

Cevera’s bat was on fire throughout the game, as she went 4-for-4 at the plate, showcasing her hitting prowess. She doubled twice, once in the fourth inning and again in the seventh, and added two singles in the second and sixth innings.

Fairport got off to a strong start, taking an early lead in the bottom of the first inning courtesy of Justinger’s triple and Phillips’ groundout, each driving in a run.

However, the Heralds fought back, seizing the lead in the top of the fourth inning. Cevera’s double, combined with contributions from Gianna Torres, Caitlyn Carney, and Rylee Frasure, propelled St. John ahead, scoring one run each.

A crucial error by the Heralds allowed Fairport to level the score at four apiece in the bottom of the fifth. St. John responded in the top of the sixth, breaking the tie with Oliveras’ double, driving in two runs, followed by Frasure’s single to extend their lead to 7-4.

Nevertheless, Fairport staged a dramatic comeback in the bottom of the sixth, capitalizing on an error to score five runs on two hits, surging ahead to a 9-7 lead.

Cevera displayed her versatility, starting in the circle for the Heralds. Despite her solid performance, allowing three hits and three runs over four and two-thirds innings while striking out seven, the Heralds couldn’t secure the win. McFadden led the charge for Fairport from the mound, enduring St. John’s offensive onslaught to secure the victory.

Despite the loss, the Heralds showcased their offensive firepower, tallying 12 hits. Oliveras led the charge with a 2-for-5 performance at the plate, driving in three crucial runs. Frasure also made significant contributions, collecting three hits in four at-bats. Cevera’s speed on the basepaths was evident as she stole two bases, while the Heralds collectively swiped six bags throughout the game.

For Fairport, Prioreschi and Justinger led the offensive charge with two hits apiece, each driving in a run. The Skippers demonstrated patience at the plate, drawing eight walks to capitalize on scoring opportunities.

Despite the setback, the Heralds remain determined, eagerly anticipating their next matchup against the Lakeside Dragons on Thursday, where they aim to bounce back with a vengeance.