By Sam Armstrong

LEXINGTON, Va. – In their third game in as many days, the Southern Virginia University baseball team came away with a Capital Athletic Conference win on Wednesday, beating the University of Mary Washington 9-6.

The Knights (11-26, 3-13 CAC) started the game with a five-run first inning, and never looked back in their win over the Eagles (14-17, 6-10 CAC).

Junior Ryan Saunders and freshman Riley Daniels started the bottom half of the first with a bang, hitting back-to-back solo home runs. and forcing a pitching change. After hits by Cole Critchfield and Ryan Morin, Jordan Keefer walked to load the bases. Freshman Alex Brugos capitalized on the opportunity, knocking a single to center field and bringing in two runs. Center fielder Josh Hilburn hit a single of his own to drive in the fifth run of the inning.

Daniels had a stellar game on the mound, pitching eight and a third innings and giving up only four earned runs, earning his second win of the year. He also struck out four and held the lead for the Knights the entire game. Jonathan Hodges made the last two outs in relief.

Catcher Jordan Keefer had a great day at the plate, hitting a home run and drawing two walks. Southern Virginia totaled 14 hits on the game, including multi-hit games from six different players.

The Knights take the field again on Saturday with a doubleheader against St. Mary's (Md.). The first game starts at 12:00 p.m. at Rockbridge County High School. The Knights will recognize their five seniors immediately before the first game.