Score
| Team | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | R |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Northenders | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1 |
| Mustangs | 0 | 0 | 3 | 0 | 0 | 0 | x | 3 |
Starting pitchers Kevin Spiteri for the Mustangs and Keith Bartolo for Mellieħa both delivered strong performances in a tightly contested Game 5, with the Mustangs emerging victorious 3-1 thanks to timely hitting and excellent defensive plays.
Mellieħa starting pitcher Keith Bartolo went the distance, pitching a complete game and keeping the Mustangs offense under pressure throughout the contest.
Mellieħa opened the scoring in the 2nd inning when Masashi Suzuki hit a single and advanced to second on an error, Michael Bartolo followed with an RBI single. Bartolo attempted to stretch the hit into a double, however pitcher Kevin Spiteri cut the relay throw from the outfield and fired to second base to record the out and limit the damage.
The Mustangs responded in the bottom of the 3rd inning, scoring all three of their runs. With runners in scoring position, Jan Harm Visser delivered a big 2-RBI double to put the Mustangs ahead. Shortly after, Efrain Deyan was caught in a rundown between first and third base, allowing Visser to score the Mustangs’ third run of the inning.
Gabriel Di Sabatino continued his excellent form at the plate with three hits, while Andres Susarra and Jesus Yadry both collected two hits each.
Mellieħa threatened again in the top of the 3rd after loading the bases with two outs. Matthias Konno then hit a sharp line drive towards second base, but Gabriel Di Sabatino produced a spectacular diving catch to end the inning and keep the Mustangs ahead.
On the mound, Kevin Spiteri started the game allowing just one run over four innings, while Mustangs relievers Andres Susarra and Jorge Acosta combined to close out the game without allowing a run and secure the victory for the Mustangs.
The victory means the Mustangs have now fought their way back from a 3-0 deficit to make the series 3-2. Will the Mustangs complete the comeback from 3-0 down, or will Mellieħa finally take the trophy home? Find out this Sunday 24th May at 10:00 as the series continues!