Cliffside Heights Put Up 41 Runs in Two Games, Top Dusters 14–4
Marcus Belardi got the start for Cliffside and threw three scoreless, dominant innings, using an array of pitches — including his slider — to keep The Dusters off balance throughout his outing.
Chris Toman took the ball for the Dusters, but was met by a very determined Heights’ lineup. Luciano Perna continued his scorching-hot tear at the plate, following up his 11-for-13 performance last week against Cobra Kai by going 7-for-10 with five doubles and three RBIs. If that wasn’t enough offence, Marcus Belardi added 10 RBIs of his own, blasting three home runs and falling just shy of his personal record of 11 RBIs set against Cobra Kai last week.
In the top of the fourth inning, Perna took over on the mound for Cliffside and cruised through one shutout frame before handing the ball back to Belardi, who continued his dominance. Moving to the top of the sixth, Perna returned to the mound, but the Dusters began squaring him up. That’s when Cliffside’s very own Kevin Pillar — Gino Collura — stunned everyone with a diving catch in foul territory to end the threat!! Ang and Duane were so amazed by this play that it actually stopped their friendly conversation of 80's and 90's "Rasslin!"
The Dusters didn’t go down easy though. In the top of the seventh, they batted around Perna with some timely hits, including a home run from Jack Cherry. However, Perna settled in and shut the door, sealing the 14–4 Heights victory.
Looking forward to the playoffs!! and thanks for the game boys!
L. Perna