Andy Jones who came in to relieve Blackburn’s Mitchinson had struggled at times for control. Jones would strikeout six, but five walks through three innings was significant. He left bases loaded and no outs in the ninth before being replaced by Nathan Harris who induced a force out at the plate to keep the lead and leave the bases loaded with one-out. That brought Oliver McMahon to the plate who was walked to tie the game 3-3 leaving Alex Hondromatidis to step in and become the game one hero for the Demons.
Scott Mitchinson started the game for Blackburn. He pitched five innings, giving up two runs on three hits while striking out seven.
Andy Mann started the game for Melbourne and was equally as impressive. He tossed four innings, giving up one run, three hits and striking out three. Mann was supported in relief by Shane Kraemer who struck out five through his three innings, before Liam Devine threw two scoreless to pick up the win.
The series now moves to Melbourne on Saturday afternoon for Game 2 where the Demons will look to wrap up the series.