San Angelo, Texas – A seven-run second inning was too much for University of Arkansas – Fort Smith Baseball to overcome Friday, as it dropped is Lone Star Conference Tournament opener, 20-3, at Angelo State.

UAFS had allowed just one run in the inning after allowing a sacrifice fly for the second out, but a two-run single and three-run homer broke the game open.

The Lions quickly responded in the top of the third, scoring twice on a single by second baseman Morgan Crenshaw. The Lions loaded the bases with one out as the looked for a big inning, but catcher Dylan Hurt was robbed of a hit on a line drive snagged by the ASU third baseman.

UAFS put the leadoff runner on base in six of the nine innings, but grounded into three double plays.

Angelo State scored in six consecutive innings, including four in the fifth and five in the sixth.

The Lions added a run in the ninth on an RBI groundout by centerfielder Cash Balentine for the final tally. Balentine led the Lions at the plate by going 4-for-5 out of the leadoff spot.

Both Crenshaw and right fielder Hunter Church had two hits, while first baseman Nolan Riley scored two runs.

Brenden Williams had a scoreless inning in his first mound appearance of the season in the eighth.

The Lions will look to even the series Saturday at 1 p.m. A game three would follow if the series is tied.