Overview:
The Palau baseball championship series delivered another classic Wednesday night as the Airai ACES outlasted Ngermid 10-9 in 11 innings. The dramatic walk-off victory gives Airai a 2-1 series lead and puts the team one win away from capturing the title.
By: Ngeldei Tulop
KOROR, Palau — The Airai ACES moved one step closer to the championship Wednesday night, outlasting Ngermid 10-9 in an 11-inning thriller in Game 3 of the best-of-five title series at Palau Nippon Stadium.
The victory gives Airai a 2-1 series lead and puts the ACES one win away from securing the championship after the teams split the opening two games.
In a contest marked by momentum swings, clutch hitting and late-game drama, Airai erased multiple deficits before delivering a walk-off victory in the bottom of the 11th inning after more than five hours of play.
Ngermid’s offense produced 16 hits and appeared poised to take control after building an 8-4 advantage midway through the game. Jordan Mongami led the attack with three hits and two RBIs, while Spis Adelbai drove in three runs. Ngirarois Rechemang, Peasley Ngiraibakes Jr., Ray Rumong and Wataru Ise each added multiple hits.
The ACES countered with 14 hits of their own. Debesol Ngireblekuu paced Airai’s lineup with three hits and three RBIs, while Techall Sakuma also collected three hits and drove in three runs. Duch Solomon, Reese Remarui and Oniel Yobch contributed key offensive performances as Airai stayed within striking distance throughout the night.
Airai struck first with two runs in the opening inning, but Ngermid responded with a three-run third inning and continued to apply pressure offensively. The ACES chipped away at the deficit before scoring two runs in the ninth inning to tie the game and force extra innings.
Ngermid regained the lead with a run in the 10th inning and added another in the 11th, but Airai answered each challenge. Trailing in the bottom of the 11th, the ACES mounted one final rally, scoring twice to complete the comeback and secure the walk-off win.
Tatsuo George earned the victory in relief for Airai. Ngirarois Rechemang was charged with the loss after a lengthy relief outing for Ngermid.
The result follows Airai’s 10-7 victory in Game 1 and Ngermid’s narrow 7-6 win in Game 2, setting the stage for a pivotal Game 4. Airai will have an opportunity to clinch the championship, while Ngermid must win to force a decisive fifth game.
Through three games, both teams have showcased offensive firepower and resilience, producing a tightly contested championship series that has been decided by narrow margins and late-inning performances.