Lemon Grove Takes on Northern California in Semi-Final Game Monday

The Lemon Grove Senior Little League All-Stars will take on the Northern California champions Monday afternoon for a chance at the final and a trip to the World Series in Bangor, ME. The matchup against Sunnyvale National begins at 3 p.m. at Jay Littleton Ballpark in Ontario, CA.

The Southern California champs were beat by Hawaii in a 6-3 loss Sunday that left the team down but not defeated. With both teams already qualified for semi-final play today, the outcome of yesterday’s game had no affect on the All-Star’s placement as pool competition was concluded.

It was the first defeat for the team, comprised of 14- to -16-year old players who have known each other since starting in T-ball together.

The Lemon Grove Little League web site calls the Hawaii team “tough,” and cites “uncharacteristic mistakes and missed opportunities” by the All-Stars in a hard-fought game played out in front of several local fans.

David Doane, LGLL board member, says continued support is appreciated by the team.

“We are all still getting into high gear,” he said by email. “If Lemon Grove advances to the World Series, we will need everyone’s help.”

The baseball team shut down Montana 18-1 to take the July 31 in the 2012 Little League Baseball Western Regional Senior Tournament. They continued their winning streak , and .

A win today will put them in the race for the championship title in a final game that begins at 6 p.m. Tuesday.