April 27, 2012

Box Score

MILWAUKEE - Tyler Deetjan allowed one earned run in 7.0 innings and Valparaiso University broke open a 3-3 game after the fifth inning in handing the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee baseball team a 9-3 defeat Friday at Henry Aaron Field.

The Panthers (17-21, 10-9 Horizon League) tied the game in the bottom of the fourth, only to see the Crusaders (20-20, 13-6 Horizon League) score five unanswered runs in the fifth and sixth innings to take control.

"We just weren't very good on the mound," Milwaukee head coach Scott Doffek said. "Our defense was a little flat-footed and it showed. And we just didn't give ourselves much of a chance. We walked too many guys and Eric (Semmelhack) got himself into some backwards counts. He's been so good for us pretty much all year, but it just wasn't a great day for him."

A decision regarding Saturday's game was also made immediately after the conclusion of today's contest. Due to the expected rain in the forecast, tomorrow's game has been postponed and the teams will now play a noon doubleheader Sunday.

"Either way we have to show up and play, it doesn't matter what day it is," Doffek said. "If we show up like we did today, we are going to be in trouble. If we show up, ready to compete in all facets, I like our chances."

Junior Eric Semmelhack (3-6) got the start for UWM but was immediately in trouble after allowing a pair of unearned runs in the first inning. The Panthers got one back in the second but Valpo responded immediately to regain the two-run lead with a single tally in the top of the third.

In the last of the fourth inning, UWM made it a new game and did it with two outs. A double by sophomore Tell Taylor made it 3-2 before freshman Michael Porcaro singled in another to tie the contest.

It all went the Crusaders way from there, scoring the final six runs of the game. Every starter had at least one hit on the day as part of the 17-hit attack. Elliot Martin led the way with a 3-for-4, 2 RBI, 2 run day.

For the Panthers, freshman Luke Meeteer was 3-for-4 to pace the offense. Sophomore Ryan Solberg joined Taylor with a run scored and a 2-for-4 day at the plate.

Semmelhack went just 5.0 innings, allowing 10 hits and five runs, three earned. Deetjen scattered nine hits in his performance, walking none and striking out five.

Once again, there will be no game played tomorrow. The teams will wrap up the weekend series with a twinbill Sunday, starting at noon.