Knights' ninth-inning rally falls short in loss to Tides

From staff reports

FORT MILL -- The Charlotte Knights were unable to extend their four-game winning streak Sunday with a 4-3 loss to Norfolk.

Charlotte starting pitcher Lucas Harrell labored in his first start since coming off the disabled list, walking five in five innings.

The score was tied at 2-2 in the top of the sixth inning when Norfolk's Melvin Dorta hit a two-out double off of reliever Justin Cassel. Dorta then scored on an RBI single from catcher Robby Hammock.

The Knights responded the following inning with a solo home run from Josh Kroeger, his team-leading 16th homer of the season.

Norfolk grabbed the lead the next inning when Brandon Pinckney scored from third on a wild pitch. The Knights tried to mount a rally in the ninth inning with runners on second and third before outfielder Stefan Gartrell flew out to center to end the game.

Cassel (3-9) took the loss for Charlotte, while Dennis Sarfate (1-1) picked up the win for Norfolk.