Wanneroo Giants Dominate Phantoms in Strong Win
The Wanneroo Giants made a fast start and never looked back, cruising to an 11-0 victory over the Eastern Phantoms on Thursday at Empire Ballpark.
The Giants hit the scoreboard early, cashing in on an error before Blake Thompson hit into a fielder’s choice that plated two more runs. Ben Hannan then added another with a sacrifice fly, setting up a 4-0 lead after the first. They continued to build pressure in the third inning with a two-run single to centre field by Sebastian Beazley.
Cooper Barber was outstanding on the mound for the Giants, tossing five scoreless innings while giving up just three hits, striking out three and walking four. Cody Joss took the ball for the Phantoms and battled through three innings, conceding seven runs (three earned) off six hits.
Chayce Benseman and Harry Wooden both collected two hits for the Giants, while Hannan, Beazley, and Mitchell Elliott each drove in two runs. Barber also showed patience at the plate, drawing two walks as the Giants earned seven walks across the game. The Giants were aggressive on the bases, swiping 10 in total, with multiple steals from Benseman, Barber, and Elliott.
Defensively, Wanneroo were rock-solid, turning two double plays and going error-free for the match. Benseman led the way with seven plays in the field.
For the Phantoms, Hyte Brooks, Ethan Sneddon, and Arata Samukawa each managed a hit, but they couldn’t crack the Giants’ strong defence.