The Freed-Hardeman University Lions (25-8, 12-4 MSC) defeated the Cumberland University Phoenix (20-16, 9-3 MSC) Friday evening by a score of 11-9.  The Lions battled hard throughout the game to maintain the lead.

Senior Alex Huey got the nod to start for the Lions.  He pitched 2 scoreless innings to begin the game.  The Lions struck first in the top of the second inning after scoring on an error and an RBI single from Hunter Beecham.  The score after the second was 2-0.

The Phoenix were able to cut the lead in half in the third and eventually took the lead in the fourth, making the score 3-2.  

In the sixth inning, the Lions were able to string several hits together to tag 7 runs on the Phoenix.  The scoring began with an RBI single from Caleb Molo.  Kent Rooklin then doubled for 2 RBIs.  Shortly after, JP Key doubled for 2 RBIs.  Zach Sanders rounded off the inning with an RBI single.  The new score was 9-3.  The Phoenix did not let the new lead stay long as they answered back with a 3-run homer.  The score after the sixth was 9-6.  Huey exited after 6 complete innings, allowing 6 runs on 6 hits, 2 walks, and 7 strikeouts.  Wesley Culley entered for relief.  

The Lions extended their lead in the eighth with RBI hits from Sanders and William Kelley.  The score was 11-6.  The Phoenix again battled back to score 2 runs to make the score 11-8.  Culley exited after 1.2 innings pitched, allowing 2 runs on 4 hits and 1 walk.  Creasy entered to attempt the save.  

The Phoenix threatened to score several runs in the last inning, but Creasy was able to limit them to just 1 run.  Huey received the win and Creasy earned the save.

The Lions will play Cumberland University in a doubleheader tomorrow starting at noon.

Article Written By:

Eli Walker

Student of Sport Administration

FHU

eli.walker@students.fhu.edu