Glen Strandberg
Sports Editor

First place was at stake in the 6th grade community education elementary baseball league on Wednesday, June 28, and the Columbus Aís claimed the title with a convincing 10-6 victory over the St. Peters Twins.

The Aís came into their season-ending game with a near-perfect record of 12-1, but that one loss was to the boys from St. Peters. The two squads have battled back-and-forth over the last two years so there was a competitive history that factored into this match-up.

ìItís always been a really good rivalry,î Twins head coach Bryan Murdock said after the game.

ìThey were a better team last night, thatís for sure.î

From the very first at-bat, momentum seemed to favor Columbus, and they were able to pull away as the game wore on. Already holding onto an early lead, the Aís used a 5-run inning in the fourth to essentially seal the win.

ìWe got base hits when we needed to,î Robin Friese said of the Aís.

Friese went on to cite the defensive play of A.J. Fenne, Alex Holien and Joel Friese, as key moments to the Aís triumph. Fenne made a great stop on a throw to first, and then had the presence of mind to dive at the base runner's feet to make the tag for the out.

Josh Niere got the start for Columbus and the Twins had a difficult time getting on base while he was on the mound.

ìJosh did an awesome job,î Robin Friese said.

The Twins countered with Brandon Thompson and he looked solid throughout the maximum of three innings allowed. Justin Witzel also got quality time in relief.

Murdock praised his pitching staff as well as his catchers, and also singled out Thomas Loch who got a hit. ìI was really happy with his play,î Murdock said.

The loss dropped the Twins record to 10-2, which eliminated any hopes of them catching the Aís.

Even though the St. Peters Twins will not finish in first place this year, Murdock sounded like a coach who had his team playing for all the right reasons.

ìWin or lose, they always have a good time.î

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