Illini Defeat the Gophers in Hitfest

Brandon Wikoff trots around the bases after hitting his 3rd homerun of the season

It was the best game of the season in my opinion.  For those that missed it, it’s too bad.  You missed a heckuva battle between the Illini and the Golden Gophers of Minnesota.

A couple facts about this game:

• Both teams got 17 hits
• Both starters gave up at least 8 runs
• Every Illini starter got at least one hit and at least run or rbi
• Three homers for the Illini!  (Aaron Johnson, Brandon Wikoff, and Dom Altobelli)

Tonight’s game was a game of tides.  With the score tied at one, the Gophers scored five unanswered runs.  Then it was the Illini’s turn.  Through the 4th, 5th and 6th, they scored 10 also unanswered runs to take the lead 11-6.

 

Score by Innings                    R  H  E
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Minnesota........... 011 400 400 - 10 17  2
Illinois............ 010 253 40X - 15 17  0
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Dom Altobelli was 3 for 5 with 5 rbis, 3 runs a double and a homerun

Minnesota took the momentum back and made the game a little interesting.  In the seventh, they scored four to bring the score to 11-10.  Illinois sealed the game in bottom of the inning by scoring four of their own thanks in part to Dominick Altobelli’s 3-run homerun to left.  Altobelli had a great night going 3 for 5 with 5 rbis and 3 runs with a double and the homerun, his 3rd of the year.

Final Score 15-10  Box Score

Joe Bonadonna fist bumps a youth while Pete Cappetta watches on

Speaking of great nights, centerfielder Joe Bonadonna did all right.  He was 4 for 5 with two runs.  Much has been made in the press about Bonadonna’s slow start and how he’s starting to turning it around.  Well, he’s still at it.   These four hits will help that average (for those wondering it’s above the .250 mark at .256).

Starter Phil Haig takes some practice on the sideline during a break in the action

Phil Haig probably wins the prize for most earned runs given up while getting a win.  He gave up 10 in 6 1/3.

I kid Phil.  Let me say this about him.  I love seeing how much he’s in the game even after he’s taken out.  He’s the first to welcome the defensive crew back into dugout after they’ve gotten the opposition out, encouraging the team.

Lee Zerrusen kept Minnesota scoreless for the final 2 1/3 innings

Finally, I want to say “nice job, Lee Zerrusen!!!”  For 2 1/3 innings, he kept Minnesota at bay, allowing only two hits getting the save (his first).

One down two to go.  Tomorrow’s game is scheduled at 3:05.

Oh, more photos (a whole bunch, actually) at the Photo Gallery

Go Illini!!

Update:  Sunday’s game has been moved up as part of a doubleheader today.  Gametime is 1pm.