MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. – Weather concerns reshaped Queens College's Northeast Challenge opener, as Friday's scheduled single game became a doubleheader against Southern New Hampshire University Penmen at Ebbets Field.
Queens' offense showed plenty of life across the two contests, combining for 24 hits, three doubles, a triple, 12 RBI, and 14 runs scored.
Leading the way was rookie center fielder
John Harkins (Babylon, N.Y.), who enjoyed a stellar debut. The centerfielder batted .556 on the day, collecting a team-best five hits, highlighted by a 4-for-6 performance in game one with two runs scored and one RBI.
Sophomore
Peter Bounougias (Plainview, N.Y.) delivered a strong showing at the plate, batting .500 with four hits, three runs scored, and three RBI. Junior catcher
Niko Sorice (Rocky Point, N.Y.) made an immediate impact in his Knights debut, tallying one hit and one run scored while driving in three runs.
Senior right fielder
Vincent Mallon (Massapequa, N.Y.) added to the offensive surge in the opener, registering three hits, including a double, with two runs scored and two RBI.
In game one, Queens found itself trailing 6-2 after the second inning but responded with a spirited rally. The Knights plated five runs over the next two frames to take a 7-6 lead.
SNHU answered decisively in the fourth inning, capitalizing on two Queens errors to erupt for nine runs and regain control at 15-7.
Despite the setback, the Knights continued to battle. Junior left-handed pitcher
Jordan Babbo (Merrick, N.Y.) steadied the game with three shutout innings in relief, while the offense chipped away at the deficit, closing within four at 15-11 after seven innings.
The Penmen, however, added three insurance runs over the final two innings to secure an 18-12 victory.
In the nightcap, Queens struck first. Junior left fielder
Michael Vilardi (Massapequa, N.Y.) delivered an RBI single to give the Knights an early 1-0 lead.
The Penmen responded with two runs in the bottom of the first inning before breaking the game open with nine combined runs across the third and fourth to cap Friday's action with a 16-2 victory.
Next Pitch
Queens returns to action on Day Two of the Northeast Challenge, facing Adelphi University. First pitch is scheduled for noon.
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