MISENHEIMER, N.C. --The Pfeiffer Falcons brought a 6-4 lead into the ninth inning, but visiting Methodist played three runs in the top of the ninth inning and held off a Falcon rally in the bottom of the ninth to take game one of a USA South series 7-6 at a warm Joe Ferebee Field on Friday afternoon.
Sophomore Sam Odum (4-2) took the loss on the mound for Pfeiffer (15-16, 7-9). The right-hander went three innings, gave up three runs on four hits, allowing one walk and striking out three Monarch batters..
Offensively, the Falcons were led by senior Robbie Brown, who went 2-for-3 on the day with a double, a home run and two RBI. Ben Barnes put together a standout performance at the dish as well, going 2-for-4 with a double and an RBI. Sophomore Joe Javier also contributed for Pfeiffer, putting together one hit in three trips to the plate while adding a double and an RBI.
HOW IT HAPPENED
Trailing 1-0, the Falcons first put runs on the board in the third inning. Pfeiffer's offense started clicking and put up five runs, including a two-run single off the bat of junior Josh Turner.
The Monarchs then gained ground, narrowing the lead to 5-4 until the Falcons expanded their advantage in the sixth. Javier came across to score the lone run of the inning for Pfeiffer, which brought the Falcons lead to 6-4. The Falcons were unable to hold the lead, as Methodist scored three times over the remaining three innings to grab the 7-6 win.
GAME NOTES
» Pfeiffer's power output was led by Brown, who picked up two extra base hits in the ballgame.
» Every Falcons starter reached base safely in the loss.
» Pfeiffer's highest scoring inning was the third, when it pushed five runs across.
» Pfeiffer pitchers faced 44 Methodist hitters in the game, allowing seven ground balls and 13 fly balls while striking out six.
» Brown led the Falcons at the plate, going 2-for-3 with a double, a home run and two RBI.
» Methodist was led offensively by junior Jackson Deal, who went 2-for-5 with two RBI.
» Junior Brice Herring led the Monarchs pitching staff, throwing two shutout innings.
ON DECK
The Falcons and Monarchs will square off in a doubleheader on Saturday afternoon at Joe Ferebee Field. First pitch is scheduled fo 1:00 p.m.