Bergeron powers up in Defenders’ win

NASHUA - Jabe Bergeron started the Fourth of July fireworks early, belting his first home run of the season, a seventh-inning solo shot, which held up as the eventual game-winning run Saturday.

The American Defenders of New Hampshire (17-18) prevailed in a back-and-forth contest with the Sussex Skyhawks (15-20), defeating them 7-5 at Holman Stadium.

The Defenders were rewarded for their patience in the third inning, as both Boomer Berry and Bergeron drew bases-loaded walks to push across runs. Bergeron later broke a 5-5 tie in the seventh inning with his solo blast, and Greg Lemon’s sacrifice fly in the bottom of the eighth gave the Defenders a two-run cushion.

New Hampshire hurler Miguel Flores (3-0) did not factor in the decision, tossing five innings, allowing three runs on eight hits, with two walks and two strikeouts.

Flores was relieved by Adam Piechowski, who blew away the Skyhawks, earning the win after striking out the side in the top of the eighth inning.

Piechowski has yet to allow a run in 11 innings of work with the Defenders. New Hampshire closer Juan Padilla shut the door on Sussex, securing his league-leading 11 save without allowing a hit.

The Skyhawks received three-hit games from both left fielder Ryan Crespi and catcher Ray Serrano. Serrano belted his first home run of the season to lead off the second inning, while first baseman John Urick added a homer in the seventh, finishing 2-for-5 on the night.

Skyhawks starter Jamie Douglas lasted just four innings, surrendering four runs (two earned), on three hits, with four walks and one strikeout. Reliever Sandy Nin suffered the loss for Sussex.

The Defenders will face the Sussex Skyhawks in today’s (5:05) final game of this homestand before a nine-day road trip through Quebec and New Jersey begins on Tuesday.

Isaac Burkett (3-3) is slated to take the hill for New Hampshire while Carter Clemens (1-2) will get the nod for Sussex.