Neumann Downs Marywood in Series Opener
Knights get 23 hits en route to 12-1 win
Nicholas Paqualichio had Marywood's lone RBI in a 12-1 loss to Neumann Friday
Box Score
Scranton, PA - Neumann University scored ten runs over the first three innings of play and never looked back as the visiting Knights beat Marywood University 12-1 in the opening game of their three game CSAC series Friday afternoon in Scranton. The Knights, who belted out 23 hits in the game and allowed just four, improve to 14-13 (8-5 CSAC) while Marywood was handed their seventh straight loss and fall to 11-19 (6-7 CSAC).
Neumann went to work early as they plated four in the opening inning including a two-run homer by left fielder Mathieu Vallieres. With a runner on first, Vallieres went long over the right-field fence to put the Knights up 2-0. Neumann would plate two more in the first to take a 4-0 lead then added five more runs in the second. In the second, Marywood starter Rick Clifford (Scranton, PA) left the game after dislocating his shoulder on a pitch.
Pacer reliever Jeff Cleary (Parsippany, NJ) came in and allowed two unearned runs in that inning and another earned run in the third before settling down and keeping the Knights in check over the next three innings. Unfortunately for Cleary, the Pacers' bats were held in check by Neumann starter Josh Krautwald, who allowed just one hit over seven innings of work. The junior hurler struck out four and allowed just five base runners on the day.
Nick Pasqualichio (Clarks Summit, PA) picked up the lone RBI on the day for Marywood in the eighth inning as Marywood spoiled Neumann's attempt at a shutout. Pasqualichio finished the day 1-3.
Vallieres added a double for the Knights and finished the day 3-5 with three RBI and three runs scored. Joe Armata was 2-5 with a triple while Matt Compton was 2-5 with two doubles and two RBI.
Marywood and Neumann will complete their three-game series with a doubleheader in Aston tomorrow starting at noon. Those who cannot travel to see the game in person can view live stats on Neumann's website here.