Shane Kraemer had the start for the Demons and apart from the two-run first, was near perfect, needing just 97 pitches to get through seven innings. The left-handed Canadian gave up just four hits and struck out four to put the Demons in the box seat before the handed the ball over to Matthew Blackmore to get the last six outs for the Demons.
The biggest difference between Game 1 and 2 for Melbourne was that they found their bats. Melbourne’s offence had been amongst the best in Division 1 all season but were only able to manage the one solitary hit in Tuesday night’s series opener. Five hits and 11 walks in Game 2 told a different story for the Demons who were able to keep consistent pressure on the Essendon defence throughout.
Luke Abels was the Essendon starter who would record the loss. He gave up three runs in three innings, striking out five but allowing eight walks. Casey Jones entered the game for the Bombers in the fourth and did a great job of eating some innings for Essendon who you just got the feeling were managing their pitching staff in anticipation for a Game 3. Jones would finish his afternoon with six innings pitched, conceding one run on two hits and three walks.
| 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | R | H | E | |
| Melbourne Demons | 0 | 1 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 4 | 5 | 0 |
| Essendon Bombers | 2 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 5 | 0 |
With the series now locked at one game each, this series, like our Division 2 Finals Series is headed to a third and decisive game on Sunday.
A third game on short rest will test the depth of both bullpens however for Bombers fans, we’re yet to sight Kyle Bedford or Michael Formisano this series.
Game 3 is scheduled for Sunday 12 March following the Division 2 Final (approximately 4.30PM).