28.07.2007 21:43

Title hopes dashed

www.fcbarcelona.cat

FC Barcelona's baseball team have seen their dreams of winning the Liga Nacional de División de Honor come to an end after they were unexpectedly beaten 4-3 by Tenerife-based outfit Marlins Puerto Cruz.

The Canary Islanders have dominated the encounter that, prior to the start, everyone believed would be a fomality. Despite that, Barça never let their heads drop and they maintained hopes of clinching victory throughout. THe Blaugrana's chances were made difficult as they had to play and win two games away from home. The Marlins were able to take advantage of that and chalk up a win that saw their powerful end to the league season, prevent Barça from tasting glory.

Although the Catalan side went 4-1 behind, they enjoyed a strong finish and pulled the scoreline back to 4-3, although that did not prove to be enough and Tenerife were able to claim the title. The home team's pitcher, who impressed during the whole game, appeared to become nervous when Barça hitters showed that they still had belief in making a comeback. The Marlins were effective when batting though and did just enough to give their side a crucial win.

Earlier meetings

Despite the strength of the Tenerife outfit, Barça won their second meeting of the season 7-0, having been beaten in the first encounter 2-9. The final encounter proved to be tougher than was expected, however, and meant that the title eluded the Blaugrana.