Front Royal, VA- The Crusaders took on the Thomas Nelson Community College Gators last Friday, March 11. In game one of the double header the Crusaders picked up their first win of the season, however the team fell to the Gators in game two.

Game 1: The Crusaders jumped out to an early 1-0 lead after the first inning. Thomas Nelson came roaring back in the second inning with 4 runs taking a 4-1 lead. However, the Crusaders kept their cool and in the third, the team busted through for 5 runs. The big third inning was fueled by back-to-back doubles from Thomas Dunphy (Senior/Four Oaks, NC) and Thomas Sullivan (Sophomore/Omaha, NE). The Crusaders kept the 6-4 lead until the final inning, when Thomas Nelson led off the with a solo blast to bring them within one. However, Crusader pitcher John Skuba (Freshman/Hazleton, PA) was unfazed as he retired the next three batters in order, giving the team its first win.

Game 2: The second game of the doubleheader was not as favorable for the Crusaders. The team fell behind early and after falling behind the players had trouble staying focused on the task at hand, leading to multiple errors and walks. The final score being 16-4 Thomas Nelson.

After splitting the double header, the team is now 1-4 on the season.

Up Next: The Crusaders travel away to take on Williamson, on March 19, at 12noon and 2pm.