Box Score
Box Score   

DURHAM, N.C. – North Carolina Central University overcame a five-run deficit to Saint Augustine’s University by scoring two runs in the seventh inning, three runs in the bottom of the ninth to force extra innings, and the game-winning run in the 10th frame courtesy of a passed ball, as the host Eagles rallied for a 9-8 victory on Monday night inside the Durham Athletic Park.

Junior designated hitter Troy Marrow topped NCCU’s offense by going 3-for-4 at the plate with two RBI and a run scored. Marrow was also hit by a pitch for the ninth time in 11 games this season and improved his team-high batting average to .433 (13-for-30).

The top of the Eagles’ lineup – senior center fielder Akeem Hood, junior third baseman Dylan Drayton and senior right fielder Luis Diaz – did their job by reaching base and scoring two runs each. Junior left fielder Tyson Simpson helped clear the bases with two RBI, while freshman first baseman Christian Triplett drove in the game-tying run in the ninth inning with a towering blast to the base of the left field wall for a double.

NCCU freshman hurler Andrew Vernon came on in relief and held the Falcons scoreless for the final two-and-two-thirds innings to earn the win, his first on the college level.

St. Augustine’s (11-8) was led by catcher Claren Peace, who recorded three hits, including two doubles, and scored twice. Left fielder Jason Baytop added two hits with a two-run triple and two runs scored.

NCCU (7-5) returns to the Durham Athletic Park on Wednesday (March 6) to play Norfolk State, starting at 6 p.m.

For more information about NCCU baseball, visit www.NCCUEaglePride.com or download the NCCU Sports Network app available in the App Store, Google Play and Amazon.