The Columbus Lodge #2142 Order of Sons of Italy in America's Dave Saviano's sixth home run of the year and Jeff Saviano's six-hit performance powered Squad B to a 17-14 victory over Squad A on Sunday, June 26.

The A's took an early lead as they scored four times in the first inning; Mat Croothamel played his first game in eight weeks and promptly singled in the game's first run. In the bottom of the first, Saviano and David Welsh led off with back-to-back home runs and Squad A's lead was cut in half, 4-2.

In the bottom of the seventh, the game tied at 9-9, Joe Contorno started an eight-run rally for the B's. Saviano capped the inning with a home run to right centerfield. Down 17-14, after getting three runs in the eighth, Squad A had the potential tying run at the plate when B's pitcher Pete Gisonda struck out the final batter.

Currently batting .550, Saviano is playing his best ball in the five years he has been associated with the Columbus Lodge #2143 OSIA. Saviano is leading the Lodge in home runs, RBIs and is playing a "gold glove" centerfield.

"Saviano's got all the tools and he's got heart," said Joe Contorno, veteran second baseman for the Columbus Lodge. The 23-year-old Saviano, who is engaged to be married this fall, has approached this season with a fire and determination that the softball team will need as the Lodge prepares for the Easter Seals Softball Classic on Saturday, Aug. 1 at Cantiague Park in Hicksville.

Other OSIA News: Take the word "former" away from Lodge member Thomas McLoughlin's name. Tommy rejoined the Lodge earlier this month. Glenn Merto has been downgraded to "out for the year," due to a knee injury. OSIA's annual picnic is Aug. 2 in Marjorie Post Park.