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FAIRFIELD, Conn. – Fairfield American is just one win away from returning to the Little League World Series in Williamsport, Pa., for the second time in three years. Fairfield takes on Bedford, N.H., for the New England regional championship in Bristol at 6 p.m. Saturday.
The prolific offense that carried Fairfield into regionals has yet to show signs of slowing, as American has racked up 46 runs through five games in Bristol.
Fairfield advanced to the championship game in dramatic fashion, defeating Vermont with a Will Lucas walk-off single Thursday.
Biagio Paoletta has been an unstoppable force with his bat, hitting .646 in the tournament. Paoletta has driven in 14 runs, despite being walked each time he came to the plate in Thursday's state semifinal game. It remains to be seen whether New Hampshire will pitch to the red-hot catcher.
The pitching has been just as impressive for Fairfield, holding its five opponents to a combined eight runs. Ryan Meury has blown away opponents on the mound, striking out 21 batters in 10 1/3 innings pitched in two starts. Fairfield pitching has combined for 40 strikeouts in the tournament.
Fairfield's left-handed pitcher Matt Kubel is expected to get the ball in the championship game. Kubel has pitched 6 1/3 innings so far in two mercy-rule shortened wins.
Fans are encouraged to arrive to the A. Bartlett Giamatti Leadership Training Center in Bristol early because the game is expected to sell out. Those who cannot make the game in person can watch the action on ESPN. Colony Grill and The Shack will feature viewing parties for the 6 p.m. game.
Can't watch the game on TV? Follow Eric Gendron on Twitter for live updates from Bristol.
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