NCCC takes 3 of 4 from rival Kats

NCCC takes 3 of 4 from rival Kats

Niagara County Community College won three of four games against rival Erie Community College this past week. The Thunderwolves, who are ranked No. 4 in the latest NJCAA Div. III poll, are now 21-5 overall and 9-1 in regional play. NCCC next takes to the diamond this coming weekend for a four-game set with Corning Community College.

Niagara CCC 12, Erie CC 2

Sophomore pitcher Gunner Becker moved to 5-0 on the season after he struck out eight in a complete-game effort. Sophomore Kyle LaPlante led the charge at the plate as he finished 3-for-4 with a double, triple and two RBIs. Classmate Garrett Boldt was 2-for-3 with two RBIs and freshman Nick Spyropoulos added two hits, two RBIs and two runs scored.

Niagara CCC 5, Erie CC 0

Sophomore Keegan Ernest struck out 12 in a complete-game shutout for NCCC. LaPlante was 2-for-3 with two RBIs in the win.

Erie CC 3, Niagara CCC 2

Despite out-hitting the Kats, the Thunderwolves dropped their first regional game of the year. Freshman Erik Johnson (4-1) took his first loss despite tossing a complete-game four-hitter. None of ECC's runs were earned.

Niagara CCC 11, Erie CC 1

LaPlante blasted a grand slam for NCCC. Sophomore Bryan Rivera was 2-for-2 with two RBIs and two runs scored. Classmate Joe Barberio improved to 3-0 on the mound as he allowed just three hits and struck out five in four innings of work.