Dukes take 2 of 3 from Salem Community College

VINELAND- The RCSJ-Cumberland Dukes had a crucial Region 19 matchup this past weekend verses the Salem Community College Mighty Oaks, that saw the Dukes take 2 of 3 in the series. Game 1 would be the only game that Cumberland came up short, in what was a pitcher's duel for the first 5 innings of play. Salem would break the game open in the top of the 6^th inning when their offense put up 6 runs. Salem would then add 2 more runs in the top of the 7^th inning. Game 1 would end with a final of 9-1 in favor of the Mighty Oaks. The lone Cumberland run would come via a Ben Maiers homerun in the bottom of the 6^th inning.

Game 2 would be another contest that was dominated by the starting pitchers. Jake Shapley got the start for the Dukes and would dominate for all 7 innings of the game. As mentioned, the Mullica Hill native threw a complete game; only giving up 1 earned run while striking out 6 opposing batters. The Cumberland offense would put up a 5-spot in the 6^th inning. Casey Vaughan accounted for 2 of the RBI's and James Hallman helped off the bench with an RBI as well. Will Gamble had 2 hits in the contest. Dukes would win game 2, 5-3.

On Sunday, Cumberland would travel to Carney's Point for the rubber match of the series. Michael Guzzardo would be the offensive difference maker as he went 4 for 5 at the plate with 4 RBI's coming by virtue of a grand slam in the 6^th inning. Kevin Merrone and James Hallman would add 2 hits apiece. On the mound, starting duties were given to Andrew Simone. The righty would pitch 7.2 innings, giving up 4 earned runs and striking out 10 Mighty Oaks. Simone then gave way to Noah Robinson to shut the door and take the series win. Game 3 would end with a 7-4 Dukes victory.  

Cumberland is now 22-4 on the year and will travel to Northampton Community College on Tuesday March, 29th for a single 9 inning game starting at 3:30Pm.