Sandoval, Jackson Bats Power Past Point Boro in 12-8 Win

JACKSON — In a true hitter’s battle defined by early offense and timely execution, Jackson defeated Point Boro, 12-8, behind a complete team effort at the plate and in the circle.

The two teams combined for 19 hits on the day, with Jackson tallying nine and Point Boro finishing with 10, but it was the Jaguars’ ability to capitalize on a few more opportunities with runners on base that ultimately proved to be the difference. Both lineups came out aggressively, with the bulk of the scoring taking place over the first three innings in a fast-paced, back-and-forth start.

Jackson’s offense delivered in key moments throughout the game. Sophomore Emma Sandoval led the charge, finishing with two hits, three RBI’s, and a run scored. Senior Emily Hersch and junior Kaylee Cavallo also made their presence felt, each driving in two runs while collecting a hit and scoring once.

While the Jaguars’ lineup produced from top to bottom, their success was complemented by a unique and trusted dynamic in the field. Throughout the season, Hersch and sophomore Mia Ingenito have shared responsibilities as a joint battery, alternating between pitcher and shortstop. The chemistry between the two — developed over years of playing together, including their time at Jackson Memorial — has been a stabilizing force during a season that has otherwise featured many new faces.

Together, the duo combined for 10 strikeouts, with Ingenito recording seven and Hersch adding three.

“Emily and I have relied on each other for the past two seasons,” Ingenito said. “I honestly feel more confident when she is behind me at short. When either of us struggles, we know the other can come in and get the job done. We really go hand in hand, and without her, it would be more pressure on either of us. I know I can’t take this season for granted because this will be our last season together since she is a senior.”

Point Boro showed plenty of fight offensively but struggled to string together hits in a few key situations. Senior Cassidy Supplee led the Panthers with a standout performance at the plate, going 3-for-3 with a single and two doubles. Junior Jadyn Clayton added two hits and a run scored, while junior Arden Schatzman contributed with a single, an RBI, and a run.

With the win, Jackson continues to build momentum heading into a busy stretch. The Jaguars are set to face Central on Monday and Pinelands on Wednesday in regular-season play. They will then turn their attention back to the Ocean County Tournament, where they are scheduled to take on Toms River East on April 30. The winner will advance to face either Barnegat or Southern in the championship.

Point Boro will host Donovan Catholic on Monday and Central on Wednesday before traveling to Barnegat on Friday.