Big inning from UTS dooms Lions

April 8, 2023

by Dustin Semore, FHU Sports Information Director

PULASKI, Tenn. — Despite leading 2-0, the (RV) Freed-Hardeman Lions watched the University of Tennessee Southern FireHawks plate five runs in the bottom of the sixth inning leading to a 5-2 loss.

The FHU Lions (22-15, 10-9 MSC) loaded up the bases in the top of the second inning but were unable to capitalize on the early baserunners. FHU would tack on two more hits in the top of the third off of the bats of Will McCall and Sean Rooney but left the seniors stranded.

The Lions finally broke through when Rooney tallied a double to right field, later scoring thanks to Baron Ratliff's infield single. FHU would add a second run after William Kelley led off the sixth with a single, eventually scoring an unearned run to put the Lions on top 2-0.

The FireHawks (27-10, 12-5 MSC) took advantage of a dropped third strike when the next batter tied the game with a two-run homer. After a walk and a single, UTS would add two more runs with a double before a bases-loaded wild pitch scored the fifth and final FireHawk run.

The Lions battled back with Rooney leading off with a single before Trace Anderson collected a single. Mason Libla would draw a walk to load the bases with just one out, but a pair of looking strikeouts left three stranded to end the comeback bid.

Despite tossing a gem, Alex Huey (5-4) was charged with the loss in a game where he struck out 10 batters and walked one.

Sean Rooney led the Lions by going 3-4 from the plate, with Will McCall chasing with a two-hit afternoon.