LIVERMORE FALLS – Mountain Valley soundly answered any doubts in Monday’s season opener after a frustrating preseason.

Sophomores Matt Laubauskas and Justin Staires had multiple hits, and each scored five runs as the Falcons erupted offensively in a 20-8 victory over Livermore Falls. The game was called after six innings.

Staires put on a show by smashing three two-run line-drive home runs. The latter smash landed halfway up the banking beyond the left-field fence. The shortstop had six RBIs as spectators were treated to a sweet swing that drove balls out rapidly.

Laubauskas added four singles and a two-run double. The right hander also pitched four innings to earn the win.

“We can surely hit the ball,” Mountain Valley coach Steve LaPointe said. “The defense was strong, and I don’t feel there is a weak spot in the batting order because even John MacKenzie and Cory Hotham can swing the bat well and make contact. Our pitching will need to come around.”

Mountain Valley threatened to blow the game open by scoring seven runs in the first two innings. Zack Thibodeau hit a two-run single in the first inning. Staires and Andy Shorey each belted two-run homers off Andies starter Jake Marceau.

Both teams entered the game with several questions after inclement weather forced them inside for the preseason. Monday was only the second time on a field this spring.

Livermore Falls responded quickly and made the game competitive by scoring six runs in the bottom of the second inning. The key blows were two-run doubles by Kevin Gats and Zack Keene. Mike Durrell added a two-run single.

“I struggled a bit,” Laubauskas said. “It was a lot different throwing off the mound today.”

Shorey and Corey Devoe each had two hits in the Falcons 15-hit attack. Devoe clouted a grand slam in the sixth after Andies’ coach Brian Dube had ordered Stairs to be walked intentionally.

“I was really seeing the ball well,” Staires said. “It felt good to finally play a meaningful game. But, playing with these guys is great because we’re all close, and its like a big family.”

The Falcons blew it open by scoring eight runs in the sixth, sending 12 batters to the plate against Matt Contoir.

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