Box Score AUSTIN – University of Arkansas – Fort Smith Baseball scored eight runs over three innings but was unable to complete the comeback in the series finale at St. Edward's Sunday, falling 9-8 to the Hilltoppers.
St. Edward's hit back-to-back-to-back homers in the second as the Hilltoppers jumped out to a 6-0 lead. It then built the lead to 7-0 with a single run in the fourth.
UAFS started its rally in the fifth, scoring four times. Shortstop Brenden Williams drove in the first run of the game for the Lions on a fielder's choice before outfielder Hunter Church walked to load the bases. Outfielder Kinner Brasher then cleared the bases with a triple, pulling the Lions within 7-4.
The Hilltoppers got two runs back in the bottom half of the fifth with yet another homer, their fifth of the game. St. Edward's scored eight of its nine runs via the home run.
The Lions weren't done yet either, scoring twice in the sixth on RBI singles from first baseman Nolan Riley and Williams. They then scored two more in the seventh on a two-run single by pinch hitter Kaleb Shaffer to cut the lead to one.
UAFS put the tying run on with two outs in both the eighth and ninth innings but were unable to tie the game.
Eight Lions recorded a hit, with Brasher, Shaffer and Williams all driving in multiple runs. Outfielder Cash Balentine scored two runs.
Right-hander Jakob Petross was once again strong in relief, pitching 2.1 scoreless innings. He allowed two hits and struck out three. Starter Lukas Petross took the loss after tossing just three innings.
The Lions return home next weekend to host No. 2 West Texas A&M at Crowder Field.
