Griffs Move Into The Driver's Seat

Val Nappo drove home tying and winning runs in game one

The Golden Griffins showed a lot of toughness Wednesday in taking down local rival Niagara in a key MAAC doubleheader. Canisius had to have these two games, and they got them with a lot of big performances. Of course, Val Nappo delivered two huge hits, both of them with two outs. Lauryn Chris had a fabulous game one, and Caroline Main pitched very big in two relief appearances, earning a win and a save. When Canisius and Niagara get together on the field, it's usually a battle, but game one was particularly intense and filled with heroic plays from both teams. Lauren Falzone may have saved the whole season by throwing out the speedy Ambur Farmer in the bottom of the seventh inning. Freshman Corinne Schaus pitched very well in game two,

The Griffs now can qualify for the tournament in a number of ways, but the easiest will be to beat Rider twice when the Broncs visit on Sunday. But that won't be easy. Rider's senior pitcher Rachael Matreale is having a great season. Even if Rider were to lose both of their games Saturday at Niagara, they would still be in the battle, and could possibly eliminate Canisius. Rachael Matreale will pitch both games against the Griffs, unless the Brincs are eliminated after game one. Niagara was eliminated Wednesday, but there are still six teams vying for the four spots that will qualify teams for the tournament. But if Siena loses one more game, they can not catch Canisius. The Griffs could end up anywhere form first to out. Should be an interesting weekend.