2nd seeded Weehawken defeated Dayton in the NJSIAA softball semi-final 3-0 on Wednesday behind strong pitching, a first inning, 3 run “little league” home run, and an outstanding, 5th inning double play to preserve their lead. They now advance to Friday’s Sectional championship game at Cedar Grove.
Weehawken scored all of its runs on one play in the bottom of the first inning. With two runners on base, Brianna McHale hit, what is commonly referred to as a little league home run. She singled to right field to knock in the first run, and the fielder promptly misplayed the ball, not once but twice. The second run scored and Brianna circled the bases for the “phantom homer.” Single, two errors, RBI and three runs total.
Starting pitcher Brooke McHale pitched well, going the distance, but Dayton had several scoring opportunities, but could not cross the plate. The defensive gem of the game was made by right fielder Kaia Pomeranc in the 5th inning. She caught a fly ball and Dayton’s runner on third tried to score.
Pomeranc fired the ball to catcher Envey Duran, who caught it and dove towards home plate to tag out the baserunner, preserving Weehawken’s 3-0 lead. It was a highlight reel play which had the Weehawken supporters going nuts.
McHale worked out of a 7th inning jam, striking out the final batter to give Weehawken the semi-final victory and at date on Friday, June 6th at Cedar Grove, the top seed, in the Group 1, Section 2 Championship game.
Congratulations to Weehawken senior Sanaya Rodriguez on her 100th career hit.
Best of luck to the Indians as they go for a state sectional title!!!