WHITE RIVER JUNCTION, V.T. — Led by two big innings from the Sanford Mainers (21- 14) offense, the Moose kept their two-game lead in the division in an 11-2 thrashing of the Upper Valley Nighthawks (13-21).

The Mainers put together a three-run third inning and eventually a four-run seventh to put the game out of reach, and deal a devastating blow to the Nighthawks playoff chances. The Moose loaded the bases in the third with no one away as Danny Wilson (North Carolina Asheville) and Johnny Slater (Michigan) singled, with Ako Thomas (Michigan) then reaching on an error by Nighthawks shortstop Al Molina.

Zach Jancarksi (Maryland) scored a runner on a fielder’s choice, while Slater came around soon after on a wild pitch. Todd Czinege (Villanova) was the catalyst for the final run of the inning, as he reached on an error, scoring Jancarski to make it an early 3-1 lead.

With the score 5-2 entering the seventh, Sanford added four more to put the game entirely out of reach. Mike Landestoy (Texas Christian) doubled in Shaine Hughes (Monmouth) and Czinege at the innings onset, as they had singled and walked to get on base. After two consecutive strikeouts, Wilson doubled in a run, only for Slater to drive him in with a single. The Mainers would add a pair in ninth, bringing the final score to 11-2.

The indisputable leader of the offense was easily Wilson, who finished 3-for-3, with a double, two walks, two RBIs and three runs scored. Wilson led the bottom of the Mainers order, who in turn set the table for the top portion.

Troy Miller (Michigan) gave Sanford his best start of the year, going five innings, as he allowed seven hits, one run (unearned), two walks with four strikeouts as well. Both of Valley’s runs were unearned, as the Mainers committed four errors.

The Mainers have today off, but return to action on Saturday at Goodall Park when they host the Winnipesaukee Muskrats.