EIU Claims Win
Published on May 3 2014 1:42 pm
Last Updated on May 3 2014 1:42 pm
Written by Greg Sapp
The Panthers (15-29-1, 9-12-1) jumped out to an early lead, scoring seven runs through the first two innings of play. EKU got on the scoreboard in the fourth inning to make the score 7-1 before EIU scored three unanswered runs over the next two innings to take a nine-run lead (10-1).
"We got off to another good start today," said Eastern Illinois head coach Jim Schmitz. "We had a lot of players contribute on offense led by Cameron (Berra) who had a big day. We also had some clutch RBIs early in the game by Brant (Valach) and Frankie (Perrone)."
The Colonels (21-24, 10-12) responded by scoring five unanswered runs, but the Panthers held onto their early lead as they improved to 3-0-1 in their last four conference games.
EIU had eight more hits (15-7) than EKU and left two more runners on base (6-4). The Colonels had one error in the contest while the Panthers did not commit any miscues.
The Panthers used a balanced offense as eight different players had a hit in the game, including four players with multiple hits. Caleb Howell and Mitch Gasbarro both had two hits and two runs while Demetre Taylor went 2-for-5 with a run and a RBI. Brant Valach, Tyler Schweigert and Frankie Perrone all added
one RBI.
Matt Borens (3-4) earned the win for EIU, striking out eight batters while allowing seven hits and six runs in eight innings of work. Troy Barton retired the final batter of the game for his team-leading six save of the year.
Tanner Perkins (3-7) took the loss for EKU, surrendering 10 runs (seven earned) and 13 hits in six innings of action. Offensively, Bryan Soloman led the Colonels as he finished the day going 2-for-4 with three RBI and two runs.
Game two of the weekend series is schedule for Saturday at 2 p. m.
