AUSTINTOWN, OH- In a potential clash of titans on Monday, both the Canfield Cardinals and the Austintown Fitch Falcons showcased their pitching talents, but it was the Cardinals who emerged victorious with a hard-fought 2-0 win.

Senior Michael Patellis took the mound for Canfield, delivering an outstanding performance by recording 18 crucial outs. The Cardinals’ offense found its rhythm in the top of the fourth inning when Tanner Stricko blasted a triple, driving in the first run of the game.

Patellis proved to be the cornerstone of Canfield’s success, earning the win after six innings of work, during which he allowed zero runs on four hits, striking out seven batters while issuing just one walk. On the other side, Darnley took the loss for Austintown-Fitch, pitching three and two-thirds innings and conceding one run on three hits, striking out five and walking four. Zain Jadallah stepped up to secure the save for Canfield.

Offensively, David Murphy led the charge for Canfield with a solid two hits in four at-bats, while Stricko and Jadallah each contributed an RBI to the scoreboard.

Displaying discipline at the plate, Canfield drew six walks throughout the game, with Enzo Cocca and Patellis leading the charge with two walks apiece. Additionally, the Cardinals executed defensively, turning one crucial double play during the contest.

Despite the loss, AustintownFitch put up a valiant effort, with Mason Petridis leading the offensive charge with two hits in three at-bats. The Falcons’ defense remained steady, committing zero errors throughout the game, with Wallace registering the most chances in the field with 10.

Looking ahead, Canfield eagerly anticipates a rematch as they host Austintown-Fitch once again on Tuesday.