Defenders fall short

AUGUSTA, N.J. – The American Defenders of New Hampshire scored three runs in the ninth, but still fell three runs short in a 9-6 loss to the Sussex Skyhawks on Tuesday night at Skylands Park.

Jabe Bergeron launched his seventh home run of the season and Zane Chavez singled in a pair of runs for New Hampshire. Angel Molina collected his team-leading 51st run batted in of the season in the losing effort.

Defenders starting pitcher Francisco Cervantes (0-3) took the loss, allowing four runs in three innings on four hits. He also walked seven and struck out one.

Skyhawks starter Kyle Ruwe (7-5) earned the win in seven innings, allowing three runs on three hits, walking three and striking out four.

Sandy Nin notched the save for Sussex, his ninth, recording the final three outs in the ninth.

Maikel Jova led the Sussex offense, clubbing a two-run homer and finishing the night with three RBIs. Mark Pappas also drove in a pair for the Skyhawks while Chris Brown also added an RBI.

The Defenders will continue the series with Sussex this morning at 11:05 when Nick Asselin (8-6) takes the mound for New Hampshire against Roger Lincoln (4-6).

New Hampshire heads to Quebec for a weekend series starting Friday and is back at Holman Stadium next Tuesday to open a three-game series with New Jersey.