MONROE - For five innings, Steve Christensen waited for an abysmal trend to end.
After jumping out to a 3-1 lead through two innings against border rival Orangeville (Ill.), Monroe let the Broncos slowly rally to a 4-3 non-conference victory.
It was the latest in a series of near-miss losses that have, even more devastatingly, taken place on the Cheesemakers' home diamond.
"If we don't get someone to clutch up with a big hit, make a good defensive play, or get a needed strkeout by our pitchers we will continue to come close but end up on the wrong end of the score," Monroe's coach Christensen said.
Cory Kundert deserved a better fate than a no-decision in his first varsity start as he fanned four batters in as many innings.
Nate Barta, who sent Thursday's rematch with Verona into extras before Monroe lost in eight, continued to swing a hot bat as the lefty senior went 2-for-4.
After jumping out to a 3-1 lead through two innings against border rival Orangeville (Ill.), Monroe let the Broncos slowly rally to a 4-3 non-conference victory.
It was the latest in a series of near-miss losses that have, even more devastatingly, taken place on the Cheesemakers' home diamond.
"If we don't get someone to clutch up with a big hit, make a good defensive play, or get a needed strkeout by our pitchers we will continue to come close but end up on the wrong end of the score," Monroe's coach Christensen said.
Cory Kundert deserved a better fate than a no-decision in his first varsity start as he fanned four batters in as many innings.
Nate Barta, who sent Thursday's rematch with Verona into extras before Monroe lost in eight, continued to swing a hot bat as the lefty senior went 2-for-4.
