Bergen Concrete

After capturing the District 5 12 Year Old Championship the 12 Year Old Wood-Ridge/Moonachie Little League team traveled to Livingston American Little League field to compete in the Section 2 championship tournament. Game 1 on Tuesday July 20, 2004 pitted the locals against a scrappy Millburn/Short Hills team. It was a classic pitching dual and the hometown team was well represented on the mound by Tony Veltri. Tony pitched his heart out giving up only 2 runs on 4 hits 1 walk and 3 strikeouts. Unfortunately it wasn’t enough as the youngsters suffered a 2-1 setback at the hands of Milburn/Short Hills. Tony also reached base twice getting the teams only hit and scoring on Giorgio Scalone’s ground out fielder’s choice. Game 2 on Wednesday July 21, 2004 saw the hometown youngsters come out with a determination that resulted in a 10 run mercy decision against Ft. Lee. The final score was 10-0 in 5 innings. Winning pitcher Alex Aitkens faced only one batter over the minimum and threw a no hitter while walking only one and striking out 11 batters. Aitkens helped himself with 2 hits and a run scored and a RBI. Jennifer Keller almost ended the game in the 4th inning with runners on 2nd and 3rd she lined a sharp single to left centerfield scoring the runner from 3rd with the 9th run and the runner from second being thrown out at the plate on a very close play. Giorgio Scalone hat the big hit in the locals 8 run 4th inning with a bases loaded double plating 3 runs. Shannon Sullivan’s RBI single in the 5th ended the game. Other hitting stars were Thomas Fugnitti with a hit and RBI and Tommy Lacey with 2 runs scored. Game 3 on Thursday July 22, 2004 was another nail biter. The bats were again silenced by a strong pitching performance from the host Livingston’s pitcher and the locals lost another heartbreaking 2-1 decision and being knocked from the sectionals. The game was a scoreless tie going into the 5th inning. Losing pitcher Shannon Sullivan was up to the challenge herself giving up only 2 runs while walking none and striking out 6. Once again Tony Veltri got the locals only hit and scored the only run on a double steal attempt. Although disappointed at not advancing further the team made a most respectful showing and impressed many opponents and spectators. The fans from Wood-Ridge and Moonachie were also complimented for their spirit and support and it went a long way in showing others around the state what a fine and proud community we represent. ALL SHOULD BE PROUD AND CARRY HEADS HIGH.