Division 1 1sts Game 1
Melbourne vs. Blackburn 0-3
On a gorgeous night for summer finals, this showdown between intense rivals went in favor of the Orioles. Both sides had quality starters, with Blackburn’s Scott Mitchinson pitching an impressive complete game shutout. Melbourne’s starter Andrew Mann and reliever Liam Davine were solid, but Blackburn batters were able to take advantage of run-scoring chances. The Demons will need to win the next game to stay alive, while a Blackburn victory on Saturday will send the Orioles straight through to the Grand Final. First pitch is scheduled for 2:00 pm on Saturday at Melbourne’s Surrey Park.
Essendon vs. Geelong 2-4
This Baycats are feeling confident after a great start from Sam Gibbons, who pitched nine innings and held the Bombers to two runs. Geelong made some key outs to keep Essendon from getting ahead. The Bombers gave up three unearned runs, putting the Baycats in position for the crucial first game victory. Saturday’s game will be played at Altona, and a Geelong win will give them a spot in the Grand Final, while an Essendon victory will force a game three on Sunday.