Vikings prevail with defense and offense

Averaging more than eight runs a game, Fremd's offense can put runs on the board with the best of them. The Vikings' issue this season has been defense and pitching.

On Friday, Fremd played solid defense and its offense took care of the rest in its 12-7 Mid-Suburban League West victory over visiting Conant.

"When we play solid defense we can be a tough team to beat," said junior centerfielder Mike Tauchman, who went 2-for-3 with three RBI and three runs scored.

Leading 4-3, Fremd (13-6, 8-5) broke the game open in fifth when it pushed five runs across behind outfielder Nick Addison's two-run double.

The Eastern Kentucky-bound Addison finished 3-for-4 with four RBI. Shortstop Ryan Shober and third baseman Brandon Middlebrook each had two hits and scored two runs for Fremd.

Matt Johnsen (3-0) pitched 3 2/3 innings of four-hit relief to earn the victory.

Bill Charvat led Conant (8-11, 5-8) with three RBI, and Bobby Colucci and Mark Chereso had two hits each.