Kriegstein, Jamandron Lead Matawan With Offensive Explosion Against Freehold Township

FREEHOLD — What began as a quiet pitchers’ duel quickly transformed into one of the Shore Conference Tournament’s most entertaining offensive battles of the opening round.

After both teams were held scoreless through the first two innings, Matawan and Freehold Township combined for 25 hits and 22 runs in a dramatic back-and-forth contest that ultimately saw the Huskies pull away late for a 12-10 victory over the Patriots.

Matawan finished with 13 hits while Freehold Township collected 12 of its own, but it was an explosive seven-run outburst in the top of the seventh inning that ultimately gave the Huskies enough separation to survive a late Patriots rally.

The initial offensive breakthrough came in the top of the third inning when Emma Kriegstein delivered the game’s first major swing.

With a runner aboard, Kriegstein launched a two-run home run to give Matawan a 2-0 lead and ignite an offensive surge for both teams.

“I know that the pitcher for Township is very talented, but I also knew I just needed to find my pitch,” Kriegstein said. “I wasn’t looking to hit a home run or crush the ball every at-bat, but to put the ball in places where the defense wasn’t. Lucky for me, I eventually found my pitch to drive, and I’m glad that I was able to do my job of helping my team out both offensively and defensively today.”

Freehold Township responded throughout the middle innings, battling back into the game and keeping constant pressure on the Huskies lineup. The Patriots refused to let Matawan create much breathing room, continuing to answer offensively in nearly every key moment.

The game ultimately turned in the seventh inning.

Leading 8-6, Matawan erupted offensively behind timely hitting and aggressive baserunning before Elyssa Jamandron delivered the decisive blow with a grand slam that extended the Huskies’ advantage and capped a massive inning offensively.

“In a game like this where our defense is struggling to make plays, it is very important that we provide the damage offensively,” Jamandron said. “Before getting to the plate, I always have the mindset of doing the job, staying simple, and not doing too much.

“It was also important that I was able to put myself in scoring position, including my teammates. We know that if we can’t do both our jobs offensively and defensively, our chance of winning the game is slim.

“I know that Marlboro is one of the top teams in the Shore Conference and will be a tough opponent, but if we play hard and work together as a team we can [win] and make a statement for ourselves,” said Jamandron

Despite trailing by six runs entering the bottom of the seventh inning, Freehold Township continued fighting until the final out.

The Patriots scored four runs in the inning and continued to threaten, refusing to go quietly in a game that showcased the offensive depth and resilience of both teams.

Kiana DeMonte once again delivered a strong effort in the circle for Freehold Township, recording nine strikeouts while issuing just one walk. Despite surrendering six earned runs, the Patriots ace continued to demonstrate why she has been one of the Shore Conference’s most reliable pitchers this season, entering the game with a 1.83 ERA.

While Matawan’s offense ultimately stole the spotlight, Kriegstein also played a major role in securing the victory inside the circle.

The junior pitched all seven innings, allowing four earned runs while striking out five batters in a performance that required composure throughout the constant offensive swings of the game.

“We knew as a team going into the game that Township was a tough opponent and that it’s hard to beat a good team three times in a row, but we also knew we were more than capable,” Kriegstein said.

“I’m glad that we were able to be there for each other as a team and pick each other up in order to pull out a gritty win. In terms of pitching and dealing with the pressure, I feel that a lot of it comes from my experience of pitching in tight varsity games, but knowing and trusting my team behind me to make the plays when needed.

“My catcher, Elyssa, is another key component to my comfort on the mound as we’ve been playing together since we were kids, and we have that pitcher-catcher relationship where we can just look at each other and we’re on the same page.

“My success doesn’t happen without her behind the plate, and I owe her a lot of credit for everything she does not only for me but for this team as well.”

Matawan now advances to face Marlboro on Thursday in the next round of the Shore Conference Tournament.