By Scott Huff
Upper Moreland has shown that it has ‘PC’ when it comes down to success in the PIAA District One Class AAA playoffs.
“We have show a great amount of poise and character in winning these first two district playoff games,” said Upper Moreland head coach Ernie Rehr after his Golden Bears scored their second walk-off playoff win in as many games with a 5-4 win over Octorara in eight innings. “To be able to perform under that pressure situation against the best competition in the district says a lot about the make up of this team.
“Our goals at the beginning of the season were to win a (Suburban One American Conference) championship [check] and to win a district championship,” added Rehr. “We are one game away from reaching that second goal.”
The Golden Bears will meet Pope John Paul II for the district title next Wednesday (6/1/11) at West Chester East High School. PJP experienced a one-run win of its own in the district semifinals with a 3-2 win over top-seeded Phoenixville.
“They scored two runs in the seventh inning to win their game,” said Rehr. “I don’t know a lot about them, but to win a game like that means they can handle pressure, too.”
Upper Moreland broke a 4-4 deadlock in the bottom of the eighth inning to secure its ticket to the district final.
With one out, sophomore Matt Kohn doubled – and with two outs, senior Kyle Lockhard stroked the game-winning single on an 0-2 count.
“Kyle is our unsung hero and has been our No. 9 hitter for most of the season, but he has won some important games with his bat,” said Rehr. “He and Dave (McInerney) are the only two seniors in our starting lineup. Everyone knows how great a baseball player Dave has been throughout his high school career.”
McInerney – who went 2-for-4 with a pair of RBI in the Octorara win - will attend the University of Cincinnati next season on a baseball scholarship.
Upper Moreland received a complete game effort from Mike Janas.
“Mike started off the game slow, but he was lights out from the fifth inning on,” said Rehr. “He is an extremely well conditioned athlete, and he pitched well with the game on the line.
“We have a week to decide who will start in that championship game,” added Rehr, as he must decide between Janas and junior Kyle Walder. “The kids know what is on the line. Only the district champion gets to move on to states.”
Octorara 210 100 00 - 4 10 3
Upper Moreland 220 000 01 - 5 9 0
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