Recap
On Sunday, the Marsa Baseball and Softball field hosted the second game of the National Baseball League 2024. The Mellieha Northenders headed into this game holding a slim 1 game lead over the Mustangs at the start of the day. Mellieha selected Matheus Konno as their starting pitcher while Daniele Palumbo started on the mound for the Mustangs.
The Mustangs led off with a single by Kevin Spiteri who immediately used his speed to steal second base. With the runner now in scoring position, Jorge Acosta hit a single to score Spiteri from second base and give the early lead to the Mustangs. Mellieha countered immediately in the bottom of the inning. The top of the order for Mellieha got on base and sluggers Michael Bartolo and Masashi Suzuki in the heart of Mellieha’s order drove them in.
In his second inning of work, Matheus Konno pitched incredibly, striking out 2 batters and preserving the lead for the Northenders. The offense continued adding on, led by a perfect 5 for 5 performance from Michael Bartolo which included 3 doubles and a towering solo home run.
The Mustangs mounted a solid comeback late in the game as Efrain Dejan provided the power with 2 doubles and a long 2-run home run. Ultimately, a solid relief performance by Mellieha’s Cesar Rodríguez held the Mustangs’ offense in check and closer Clint Grima sealed the 14-10 win for Mellieha. With this win, Mellieha enjoy a 2 game lead in the National Baseball League standings.