In front of 5,141 at the Duck Pond in Madison’s home opener, the MoonDogs hoped to spoil the Mallards party. After the ‘Dogs took an early 1-0 lead in the top of the 1st, the Mallards would get key hits in the later innings to drop the ‘Dogs 4-1.

Tony Gonzalez (U of New Orleans) picked up the RBI in the top of the 1st, plating Jon Shepard (Chico State) to give the MoonDogs the 1-0 lead. However, the slim lead would only last till the bottom of the 2nd when the Mallards tied the score.

Starting pitcher, Will Krout (Sonoma State), would keep the Mallards at bay until the 7th when they would hit him for 2 runs and chase Krout out of the game. After scoring the 2 runs in the 7th, the Mallards tacked on 1 more run in the 8th to finish the scoring.

All-Star catcher, Matt McColgan (Santa Clara), saw his first action of the season by smacking a pinch-hit single in the 9th. McColgan, excited about returning for the 2004 season, looks to get his first start behind the dish tonight.

The MoonDogs will return home following tonight’s game to gear up for a 6 game home stand starting tomorrow night against the Thunder Bay Border Cats. It’s MAYBA Night at The Frank. All kids wearing their MAYBA jersey get free admission into the game. For tickets call 507-625-7047.