The men of Newtown and Sandy Hook appeared unstoppable on Saturday as the juggernaut Liberty Club made it's long awaited first appearance at McLaughlin Vineyards.

In a nine inning 1864 nip and tuck battle that saw magnificent fielding, heroic batsmanship and masterful hurling by both Eric Miklich and Jason Edwards, the Sandy Hooks vanquished the all-star barnstorming ballists in an 11 to 7 victory.

At the onset, both clubs appeared equally balanced, but it became quickly evident the time-tested nine with sure-handed fielding skills would win the day. Led by Pete 'Bison' Friedman, who sparked the offense from his very first at bat, and Zack Smith and Matt Maleri who were unyielding at third and short, the Sandy Hooks proved they were the superior team in this early season match-up.

The Liberty Nine fielded a distinguished club of talent ballists at the vineyard grounds but, in the end, the hard charging Sandy Hooks, without the services of their two captains Wheat and Snyder, proved to have the speed, athleticism and fire power to outlast the upstart visitors.

In game two, a seven inning 1864 affair, the Sandy Hooks pulled away quickly and never looked back.

After being robbed on two occasions by miraculous catches by Liberty fielders off maples in left and center field in game one, Tristan Toomey finally redirected his stroke to launch a majestic home run that found earth beyond the winery to strengthen the Hooks lead in game two. At the same time, following a Herculean effort in backstopping game one, Kurt Wehmann redirected his view of the action to spin the locals to a satisfying 8 to 2 victory in game two.

There is no doubt 'Pinetar' Kornhaas' colorful Liberty club will gel over time and become a force to be reckoned with.

As 'Spalding' Miklich (central character in the much heralded Conan O'Brien vintage base ball TV sketch) said at My Place pub following the match: "That Newtown squad is very talented and seemed unbeatable today. I felt I pitched my best game but they took advantage of every opportunity we gave them. I promise, we will be ready for them, next time!"

To Be Continued

Rematch of these two clubs is being planned for July 2, at Taylor Farm Park in Norwalk. 4th of July picnic and celebration is anticipated.