Feb. 10, 2006

Final Stats

Mickey Storey struck out nine batters in six innings for Florida Atlantic University, but Southern Illinois University recovered from a six-run deficit to defeat FAU 7-6 on Friday night at FAU Stadium.

Storey only allowed four hits in six innings and did not allow a base runner past second base. Chris Eberhart entered in relief and threw 2/3 innings and recorded one strike out before Anthony Bradley entered to finish out the seventh.

FAU (1-3) posted five runs in the fourth inning to take an early lead against Southern Illinois (1-0). SIU starter Tyler Norrick only allowed three hits through the first three innings before Robbie Widlansky and Mike McKenna started the fourth inning with singles. A sacrifice bunt moved both runners into scoring position and a walk loaded the bases for freshman Mario Duarte. The Tampa, FL native came up with his first collegiate hit, a two-run single through the left side to give FAU a 2-0 lead.

Two SIU errors prolonged the inning and Ovy Ramirez picked up an RBI single for the 5-0 lead. Another unearned run in the fifth was the last time Florida Atlantic crossed the plate.

The Salukis then put together nine hits in the eighth and ninth innings to put seven runs on the board. Hunter Harrigan hit a two-run double down the left field line in the eighth for a team-high two RBI.

Needing two runs in the ninth to tie the game. SIU put together three singles to start the inning. The third single came on a bunt from Grant Gerrard and an FAU throwing error allowed the tying run to cross the plate. With one out, Erik Alvarez notched the game winning hit with a single through the right side.

Dusty Baker(1-0) earned the win. He worked the final 1 2/3 innings and struck out one and did not allow a hit.

Mike Crotta suffered the loss for the Owls as he gave up three runs on five hits in one inning of work.

The two teams will face off on Saturday at 1 p.m. in the second game of the three game series.