(Photo Credit: Dowling Athletics)
by Danny Gatta
“It was one of those plays that happens in slow motion. Not only the play with the glove, but the great throw from the knees to get the guy at first, said Dowling’s Head Coach Tom Caputo, describing the great defensive play made by second baseman Rob Costanzo that ended the game.
Dowling defeated the University of Bridgeport 3-2, capturing their first East Coast Conference title since 2012.
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The pitching matchup featured Dowling’s Mike Jeannetti and Bridgeport’s Denis Lyman. Dowling stuck first against Lyman in the third. An RBI single by Tim Going plated Vinny Orlando, giving the Golden Lions an early 1-0 lead.
Back to back hits from Bobby Morse and Tyler Piccolo, followed by a walk to Chris Appell loaded the bases. Dakota Edwards entered the game for Bridgeport in relief of Lyman.
An RBI single by Orlando made it 2-0 Dowling. Edwards then issued a bases loaded walk to Costanzo, forcing in the third run of the game. Edwards induced an inning ending double play, but not before the Golden Lions extended their lead to 3-0.
Jeannetti pitched a phenomenal game. He allowed six hits and one run while striking out seven in eight and a third innings of work. Coach Caputo talked about Jeannetti and the season he has had for the Golden Lions.
“We saved his bullets along the way. We slowly transitioned him from the bullpen to a starting role, and he brought his best stuff today to help us get the win.”
Photo Credit: Danny Gatta
After coming out for the ninth, Jeannetti exited the game after giving up a solo homerun to Alnaydo Rodriguez and a double to deep center to Alec Jannotta. Thursday’s starter, Cody McPartland, entered the game and closed it out despite allowing an RBI double that cut Dowling’s lead to one.
Orlando had a great game, going 3-for-4 with an RBI and a run scored. Coach Caputo had high praise for his third baseman.“Vinny has been in-and-out of the lineup all season. Every once in a while he has a day like he had today and leads the offense. He was huge.”
McPartland got a ground ball, setting the table for the great defensive play by Costanzo to win the game for Dowling. After a slow start to the season, Coach Caputo was thrilled with the way his team played down the stretch.
“I can’t say enough about this team. They stayed focused not only today, but all year long. Their focus and hard work allowed us to get where we are today, conference champs.”
They now advance to the NCAA East Regionals beginning this week.
