By Sean Richards, Sports Writer
For the Monroe Township High School softball team, it seems like every step forward this year has been followed by one in the opposite direction.
Actually, the Falcons are very much on the winning side with a 10-6 record following Tuesday’s game, but it just hasn’t quite happened in the fashion of last year’s amazing break-out season.
”We’re a little disappointed, to be honest with you,” said coach Keith Hudak, who is a straight shooter from start to finish. “Whether it’s the bounce of the ball or not getting the key hit here or there, it’s been one of those years where things haven’t gone our way.
”I tell our kids it’s a fine line between winning and losing. We’ve been just under that line.”
Monroe’s latest effort was certainly positive as it blanked North Brunswick, 6-0. Carly Keane was in command of this one with a three-hitter and 12 strikeouts. Keane also tripled along with Lindsay Curran, while Brianna Davidson stroked a double.
The game before, however, Monroe suffered a tough 5-4 loss to Colonia when it gave up two runs in the bottom of the seventh inning. On the plus side, Courtney Baron, Davidson and Morgan Widener stroked doubles for the Falcons.
The back-and-forth trend continued in the game previous to that with Monroe defeating Howell, 5-1. Curran homered for the third time in her past five games to lift her total for the year to six, while Baron also hit a two-run shot.
Curran and Baron both finished with two hits apiece and Keane struck out four while giving up just five hits.
”Lindsay Curran is having just a great year,” said Hudak. “She’s batting like .340 with 18 RBIs, and that’s out of the lead-off slot. I think her six home runs are second or third in the county.”
Prior to beating Howell, Monroe fell to J.F. Kennedy of Iselin by the score of 1-0 in 10 innings. Monroe had runners on second and third with one out in the home 10th, but couldn’t take advantage of the situation. Keane was great in defeat with eight strikeouts and a three-hitter.
Although Monroe needs to put together a winning streak against quality teams to make this season a real success, it could happen.
The team certainly will get its chance with Carteret on the schedule today, followed by an away game at East Brunswick Monday.
Also on Monday, the seeding will be held for the Greater Middlesex Conference Tournament, which will get underway Wednesday.
Monroe, of course, is the defending champion and will be looking to recapture last year’s magic.
