Tonnemacher drives in eight to lead Lakers

SANDPOINT — Cole Tonnemacher drove in a whopping eight runs on a double and three singles, leading the Riley Creek Lakers to a 14-7 win in the second half of a doubleheader split against Orofino Wednesday afternoon at War Memorial Field.

The Lakers (14-9) had lost their previous three games to the Maniacs, who won the opening game 5-1 as some mistakes on the base paths killed some rallies. More rested than in the previous meetings between the teams on Sunday, the Lakers exploded for eight first inning runs and never looked back.

“Better base running,” said Lakers coach Mike Givens of the primary difference between the two games. “We played smarter and made the other team earn the outs.”

Tevin Hamilton had two hits and scored three runs, Tyler Gordon had two hits and two RBIs and Joel Cramer added three runs and another sparkling defensive play in centerfield for the Lakers in the win. Jordan Hammack and Gordon both pitched effectively and benefited from ample run support.

Tonnemacher went the distance on the mound in game one, striking out five and allowing just four hits in seven solid innings. Scott Snow had two hits and the lone RBI to lead the Lakers offense in the loss.

The Lakers will play an alumni game against former Sandpoint Legion players on Friday night at War Memorial Field, with first pitch at 7 p.m., then will host Silver Valley in a doubleheader on Saturday, with first pitch slated for 1 p.m.