NEW BRITAIN, C.T. -- The Bees fell to the Westfield Starfires on Thursday night 7-3 in a game that shifted momentum a few times but ultimately had the Starfires coming out on top.  The Bees were no-hit up until the fifth inning but then had a field day on Westfield starting pitcher, Jeff Taylor (Millersville University).

The Starfires were able to score first tonight when David Matthews (Central CT State University) hit a single into right field that scored the first run of the night in the top of the second inning.  Westfield added onto their lead with Eric Callahan (Millersville University) hitting a two run home run, his second of the season, to put the Starfires on top 3-0 early on.  They extended their lead in the top of the third inning with an Andre Marrero (Quinnipiac University) single that drove in another run giving Westfield a four run lead over New Britain.

The Bees came storming back though in the bottom of the sixth inning capping off a three run inning that had them trailing by just one run afterwards.  After a bases loaded walk from Mike Caruso (Fairfield University) to score the first run, Noah Martinez (Central CT State University) was able to hit into a fielder’s choice where they got the out at home, but a poor throw from Westfield’s catcher, Alex Rodriguez (Trinity College) allowed Danniel Rivera (Southern New Hampshire) to advance home and score a run.  Andrew Cain (University of New Haven) followed up with another single to drive in the third run of the inning for the Bees.

The scoring stayed quiet until the top of the ninth inning when the Starfires put the finishing touches on New Britain.  Drew DeMartino (University of Hartford) hit a deep double off the right field wall that scored two runs, and followed that up by advancing home on a wild pitch to seal the deal for Westfield.

The Bees started Brendan Kirck (Springfield College) who pitched five innings and gave up four runs on four hits, while also striking out three and walking five batters.  Yanni Orfanidis (St. Thomas Aquinas), Tommy Hughes (Southern CT State University), and Kyle Menaker (University at Albany) also pitched for New Britain tonight out of the bullpen.

The Starfires started Jeff Taylor who pitched six innings and gave up three runs on four hits, while also striking out eight and recording his fourth win of the season.  Westfield pitched three other players as well out of the bullpen.

The Bees fall to 13-21 on the season, while the Starfires improve to 15-19.  New Britain travels to Westfield to try and split the final series of the season with the Starfires on Friday. First pitch scheduled for 6:30 p.m. from Bullens Stadium.

About the New Britain Bees

The New Britain Bees are members of the Futures Collegiate Baseball League and play their home games at New Britain Stadium. For information on tickets packages, group outings and sponsorships call 860-826-BEES (2337) or visit NBBees.com.

About the Futures Collegiate Baseball League (FCBL)

The FCBL is made up of seven teams from various parts of New England, each of which plays 28 home games and 28 away games. Each franchise is made up of elite collegiate athletes competing in a minor league style format.  Each franchise provides high quality, affordable entertainment, in a casual, family-friendly atmosphere. At least 50% of the players on each team must be from New England or attend college in New England. For further information, visit www.thefuturesleague.com.