THREE-RUN HOMER LIFTS HICKORY TO 5-2 WIN ON JULY FOURTH

8,416 Fans Pack Arthur W. Perdue Stadium For Independence Day Bash

Salisbury, MD – The Hickory Crawdads scored four runs in the top of the fifth inning to defeat the Shorebirds 5-2 at Arthur W. Perdue Stadium on Sunday night. The crowd of 8.416 marked the largest of the 2010 season at Perdue Stadium.

The Shorebirds scored the first run of the night in the first inning. Ty Kelly hit a one out bloop single into center field. Then, Tyler Townsend doubled to push Kelly to third. Kieron Pope followed with a sacrifice fly to deep center field to plate Kelly.

The Crawdads knotted the game at 1-1 in the second. Matt West singled and advanced to third on a double by Cody Podraza. West scored on a wild pitch by starter Bobby Bundy.

In the third inning, the Shorebirds regained the lead. Brian Conley launched a solo homer over the right field wall to give the ‘Birds a 2-1 edge. It was his first homer in 51 games (since April 30).

The Crawdads stole the game away in the fifth inning. Zach Zaneski hit his second homer of the season to give the Crawdads a 5-2 lead. Two walks and a double aided the ‘Dads in the inning.

Hickory starter Neil Ramirez earned his seventh win of the season in seven strong innings. He allowed nine hits and two runs. Ramirez fanned six and walked just one. Shorebirds starter Bobby Bundy was tagged with the loss in 4.1 innings. Bundy surrendered five hits and four runs.

Brian Parker tossed 2.2 innings while Kevin Landry hurled two scoreless frames.

The Shorebirds return to action on Monday night at 6:05 p.m. RHP Matt Hobgood makes his first start since June 11. A postgame fireworks show will follow the contest.