After a pitching duel between Juniors Ethan Snyder and Andrew Ward, the Lions fell short to Fluvanna in eight hard-fought innings. Both pitchers allowed a combined four runs, but the Lions were unable to continue their momentum into extra innings.
Ward started off strong in the top of the first allowing just one baserunner on a walk. Fluvanna’s offense jumped to an early 2-0 lead after singles from Ryan Groome, Kevin Ward, and Andrew Ward. Snyder was able to bounce back and record three solid outs to end the inning.
The Lions got back a run in the top of the second after a leadoff single from Michael Barber followed by a walk from Travis Pleasants. Jack McDonald reached on an error and the Lions were behind 2-1.
Fluvanna recorded a baserunner in the bottom of the second, but Louisa’s defense was able to get three quick outs. The next two and a half innings were dominated by Snyder and Ward, each pitcher recording their own 1-2-3 inning. The Lions tied the game in the top of the fifth inning after Owen Agee singled to start a rally. With two outs, Garrett Duerson scored Agee on a single to right field, tying the game at 2-2.
Fluvanna loaded the bases in the bottom of the sixth on a triple and two walks. Snyder was able to get out of the jam without allowing a run, recording his sixth strikeout of the night. After hitting the leadoff batter in the bottom of the seventh inning, Snyder’s night was finished. Senior, Owen Agee came in for the Lions allowing two walks in his first inning.
Duerson recorded his second hit of the night in the top of the eighth, but it wasn’t enough to score a run for the Lions. Agee allowed a one-out walk to Kyle Algieri in the bottom of the eighth. AJ Brown drove in the winning run with a single to center field to secure the win for the Flucos.
The Lions finished the night with just four hits, two of those coming from Duerson. Ward struck out nine batters in his eight innings, allowing just two walks. Snyder finished the game with six strikeouts and four walks. The Lions finished the regular season with a record of 4-11 and are scheduled to start the postseason on May 20 at home. Let’s Go Lions!
