Smith Deals, Middletown South Downs Marlboro 3-0
MARLBORO — It was all smiles for No. 3 Middletown South after another tough division win against No. 6 Marlboro in a classic pitchers’ duel. Junior pitcher Riley Smith allowed no runs and only two hits in a 3-0 victory over the Mustangs.
The team chemistry was evident, starting with the Eagles’ battery of Smith and catcher Nora Sarcone, who have been teammates since playing on an 8U travel team. Smith finished the game with 10 strikeouts, raising her total to 52 over her first five games.
“I mean, it’s amazing. I’ve known her [Sarcone] for as long as I can remember, and I like having someone that I trust and who I know will give her all for me, and I will give my all for her,” Smith said. “I think it helps motivate the team. I like having a solid base, starting from the bottom, we’re strong. I mean, it helps everyone be more confident and have faith in us, and we have faith in our field.”
Middletown South pitcher Riley Smith and catcher Nora Sarcone (Photo by Samantha Mayer)
The Eagles capitalized on a two-out error to score three runs in the top of the third inning. Freshman Olivia Wisiak singled and later scored when the left fielder misplayed Smith’s line drive. Pinch runner Quinnlynn Heaney crossed the plate on junior Celia Collings’ single, making it 2-0.
Junior Mia Collins extended the lead to 3-0 with an RBI triple to right field. Collins finished 2-for-3 with a triple, double, and RBI for the Eagles.
“I was trying to feel as confident as possible because last game I went 1-for-3, so I just wanted to do better than the last time,” Collins said. “We are 4-1 now, so we’re just going to keep going and stay as confident as we can.”
Middletown South’s Mia Collins (Photo by Samantha Mayer)
Marlboro marked the fifth straight ranked opponent Middletown South has faced. The Eagles opened the season with an 11-1 win over No. 9 Southern before falling to No. 1 St. John Vianney. They rebounded with wins over No. 3 Red Bank Catholic and state-ranked A.L. Johnson before defeating Marlboro.
“I think this win is just a catalyst going into the week,” Middletown South head coach Lisa Smith said. “Marlboro is a great team, a former state champion, and they have experience competing in really big games. I think they will definitely improve throughout the season, so I know they’re going to be ultra-competitive the next time we see them.”
Marlboro showed some early and late sparks but was ultimately shut out by Smith. Senior pitcher Emily Gaudio executed a sacrifice bunt in the bottom of the first inning to advance junior Bella Wuelfing, but that was the Mustangs’ only baserunner until the fifth inning.
In the circle, Gaudio struck out seven batters and did not allow an earned run or a walk.
Marlboro pitcher Emily Gaudio (Photo by Samantha Mayer)
Confidence will be key as the Eagles prepare for Wednesday’s game against crosstown rival Middletown North. Though unranked, the Lions are a dangerous bubble team.
Middletown South will follow that with divisional games against No. 4 Colts Neck and No. 1 St. John Vianney. Marlboro will look to bounce back against No. 5 Red Bank Catholic on Wednesday before traveling to No. 4 Colts Neck on Thursday.
