Clutch Moments in Round 3
25 Oct by Matt Carter
Central Coast Baseball Weekend Recap: Big Hits, Walk-Offs & Star Performances
The Central Coast baseball diamonds were buzzing this weekend with high-scoring innings, clutch hitting, and nail-biting finishes across every grade. With power at the plate, speed on the bases, and plenty of passion from the dugouts, this round of competition showcased exactly why local baseball is thriving.
Here’s a look back at the biggest storylines and standout performances from around the league.
Rebels Dominate the Pirates in Three Grades
The Rebels flexed their strength with decisive wins over the Gosford Pirates in 1st, 2nd, and 5th Grades.
In First Grade, the Pirates struck first but the Rebels answered late, erupting in the sixth inning with key RBIs from Kurt Eden and Michael Campbell to secure an 8–3 victory. Jackson McAlpine was a force, going 3-for-5 with two RBIs. Despite the loss, Pirates’ Robin Hitchcock put on an impressive display with three hits, while Zachary Stanbridge added spark on the basepaths.
Second Grade followed a similar pattern as the Rebels piled on seven runs in a decisive second inning. Joel O’Keefe’s three-run single broke the game open, setting up a 7–4 win. Randall Jeans led the Pirates’ response with a two-hit performance.
In Fifth Grade, Ben O’Connor lit up the scoreboard with five RBIs in a 14–1 blowout, supported by multi-hit games from Doug Smith and Joe Marmara.
Pirates Find Their Grit in Fourth Grade
Amidst tough matchups, the Gosford Pirates showed heart where it counted most. In Fourth Grade, they held off a late Rebels charge to claim a gritty 6–5 win. Dave Carr’s timely hitting and two RBIs proved pivotal, while disciplined at-bats across the lineup produced seven walks. The Pirates’ ability to capitalize early ultimately made the difference.
Bears Bring the Power
The Central Coast Bears were in a hitting mood this weekend, putting up explosive numbers.
In First Grade, Chase Karn set the tone early with a solo home run and capped off the day with a two-run double in a 10-run eighth inning. The Bears overwhelmed Wyong Wildcats 16–2, with Josh Bonnello delivering a perfect 5-for-5 performance at the plate.
Fourth Grade continued the power surge, with Glenn Bartho driving in five runs on two hits to lead the Bears to a thrilling 13–10 win. Chris MacDonald and Michael Minchin added clutch hits to keep the offense rolling.
Walk-Off Heartbreak for Bears Fifths
Fifth Grade delivered one of the day’s most dramatic finishes. Despite racking up 20 hits and 15 stolen bases, the Bears were on the wrong end of an 18–15 walk-off defeat to Wyong Wildcats. Bryce Ellis was the hero for Wyong, launching a grand slam in the bottom of the fourth inning to seal the win. Barrie Scarah and Terry Johnson headlined the Bears’ offensive onslaught.
Bobcats’ Agar Shines in Fourth Grade
The Wyong Bobcats rode a stellar performance from Troy Agar, who went 3-for-4 with a double and multiple RBIs in a 14–3 victory over Gosford Indians. Backed by 18 team hits, the Bobcats displayed relentless offensive pressure and smart base running.
Indians Deliver an Offensive Masterclass
The Gosford Indians capped off the weekend with a jaw-dropping display in Fifth Grade, overpowering the Bobcats 29–5. Matthew Greig produced one of the standout performances of the season, driving in an incredible 10 RBIs with two home runs. Tiernan Stuckey and Greg Scales added five hits each in a game that will be remembered for its sheer firepower.
The Big Picture: A Season Heating Up
This weekend had it all — big bats, standout individual efforts, and late-inning heroics. The Rebels made a statement across multiple grades, the Bears reminded everyone of their offensive potential, and the Indians showed just how dangerous they can be when everything clicks.
As teams turn their focus to next week’s matchups, momentum is shifting, rivalries are intensifying, and the competition is wide open.
Let us know if you enjoyed this wrap-up, and if we should keep it going in the comments!
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