Defenders power up in 11-5 win over Sussex

NASHUA - The American Defenders of New Hampshire (16-18) scored in five different innings to take down the Sussex Skyhawks (15-19), 11-5, in front of 1,012 fans at Holman Stadium on Friday night.

Down 4-1 heading into the bottom of the third, the Defenders responded with four runs, highlighted by a two-run single from Argenis Tavarez. Edward Ovalle’s fourth inning homer gave New Hampshire a 6-4 lead it would never relinquish, while Angel Molina’s three-run shot in the sixth provided some extra insurance. Third baseman Chris Kelly belted his league-leading ninth home run well over the left-center field wall in the eighth inning to cap off his 4-for-5 night.

Sussex had jumped out to an early lead after a three-run third inning, including a two-run double by first baseman John Urick. The Skyhawks could manage just one more run in the seventh inning, a solo blast from center fielder Luis Soto. Third baseman Jeremy Hunt picked up two hits in four at bats for Sussex.

New Hampshire starter Nick Asselin (3-3) earned the win to even his record, working six innings, allowing four runs (three earned), on seven hits, with one walk, and one strikeout. The Defenders also received scoreless frames from relievers Adam Piechowski and Juan Padilla.

The Skyhawks sent lefty Roger Lincoln (2-2) to the mound, who suffered the loss, allowing six runs, on seven hits, with three walks, and seven strikeouts. Lincoln was relieved by Alex Smith, who was touched up for five runs over four innings.

The Defenders will take on the Sussex Skyhawks again today (2:05) at Holman Stadium. The game will be followed by a concert featuring AFTERBURNER, with beer tents available and fireworks starting at dusk. Sunday’s contest will begin at 5:05 p.m. as the first 1,000 fans will receive logo baseballs.