The Palo Alto High School baseball team lost 4-2 to fourth ranked Wilcox ending their six game win streak. After a long defensive battle the Vikings were unsuccessful at overtaking the Chargers.
From the beginning of the ball game the Vikings knew that they were in for a tough battle. The Chargers started off strong and held their lead for the entire game.
“No matter what year it is they are always a really tough, good team,” coach Erick Raich said.
Pitcher Kevin Kannappan (‘12) started of the top of the first inning for Paly, and gave up three hits to Wilcox batters.
Wilcox’s first batter knocked one up the center for a single. A wild pitch advanced the runner from first to second. Then a deep hit over second by another Charger allowed the first run to slip on home. Towards the end of the top a bunt loaded the bases putting the Vikings in a shaky situation. Kannappan kept his calm and struck the last batter out.
In the bottom of the second the Vikings were quick to retaliate. B.J. Boyd (’12) drove a single to center field on the first pitch. A high throw to first allowed Boyd to steal second and third. After the pitcher gave Jack Witte (’12) a walk to first, Paly was given an even better outlook.
The Vikings were unable to bring Boyd and Witte home with two consecutive outs to end the inning.
After two more strong defensive innings, the Chargers continued to hold the lead by one.
In the top of the fourth the Chargers started to take control of the game. With three consecutive runs Wilcox took a 4-0 lead over Paly.
Refusing to give in, Justin Grey (’12) got on base and stole second soon after. After another bad pitch, Grey stole third giving the Vikings much needed hope. A single by Austin Poore (’13) brought Grey home and put the Vikings on the score board. Kyle Stewart (’12) got on base and Isaac Feldstein (’13) followed up with a double bringing Stewart home.
After an upsetting loss, the team is moving on and getting ready for their next game.
“It’s good for us,” Raich said. “More importantly, we need to get healthy.”
The Vikings will play the Chargers again at Wilcox on Thursday.
