HarbourCats struggle to score in 8-2 playoff loss to Bells

The Victoria HarbourCats suffered an 8-2 defeat at the hands of the Bellingham Bells in game one of their first round playoff matchup on Tuesday.

The game remained tight early, with Bellingham taking a 2-0 in the top of the second on a two-out single by designated hitter Malcom Moore. Victoria would answer back with a rally of their own in the bottom of inning five, tying the game at 2-2 on a double by left fielder Jesse Brown.

The game would swing back in the Bells favour in the top of the sixth as they put up three runs to take a 5-2 lead into the final three innings. Bellingham would then add three more in the top of the eighth to 8-2 win.

Bellingham starting pitcher Brandt Pancer would earn the win on Tuesday, giving up 2 runs on five hits over five innings while striking out four.

Meanwhile, Victoria reliever Josh Verdon would be issued the loss after surrendering six runs on eight hits in four innings of relief following the exit of starting pitcher Loreto Siniscalchi.

The majority of Bellingham’s offence was provided by the aforementioned Malcom Moore, who drove in three runs on a double and two singles, while catcher Willis Cresswell provided an offensive boost of his own with three hits and one RBI over four at bats.

On the losing side, it was Jesse Brown who drove in the only two runs for the ‘Cats, finishing the day 1-4. Catcher Tyler Pettit and designated hitter Russell Young also had solid performances in the loss, each recording three hits over four plate appearances.

The HarbourCats will now cross the border for a win-or-go-home game two against the Bells on Wednesday night. First pitch is set for 6:36 pm at Joe Martin Field in Bellingham.