The Howe Sound Cannons continued their impressive run this season with a sweep in a doubleheader against North Vancouver's Pirates Saturday (July 24), pushing their record to 16 wins and three losses, and good for first place in the North Shore Men's Baseball Association.
The early game saw the Cannons open up a four run lead and never look back, cruising to a 7-3 victory. Brent Dunsford led the way, driving in three runs off of a double in the sixth to seal the victory. Josh Parra also put together a solid game, going three for four and driving in a run of his own.
Pitcher Jerry Lalli went the distance, striking out 16 and only allowing six hits.
The second game proved to be a tighter affair, with the Cannons edging out the Pirates 2-1. Pitchers Kevin Smilie and David Jones combined for a one-hitter in the victory.
Next up for the Cannons is a battle for first place against the Brewers on Thursday (July 29). Results were not available at press time.
The winner of that game will be awarded first place in the NSMBA and will have an easier path to the finals.
The first and second place teams in the NSMBA will both receive byes into the second round of the finals tournament, with each series playing a best of three format.
Playoffs for the Cannons will begin later in August, with a weekend of due to the B.C. Day long weekend and the aforementioned first round bye.
For more information on the Cannons, visit http://www.ballcharts.com/teams/index.php?team=hscannons.
