CHARLESTON, S.C. -- Headlined by a combined 14-strikeout performance by starter
Will Holmes and closer
Michael Gibson, The Citadel (20-21, 5-8 SoCon) staved off visiting UNCG (15-27, 2-11 SoCon) in the opening contest of a three-game weekend series, topping the Spartans in a pitcher's duel behind a final 2-1 decision Friday evening at Joseph P. Riley, Jr. Park.
Gibson, who served as the Bulldogs' designated hitter as well, notched two hits on the night, including a double, and scored the go-ahead run in the second frame.
Christian Stratis contributed a infield knock and crossed home plate as well.
Lane Tobin logged the lone RBI for The Citadel, bringing in Stratis on a sacrifice fly during a bases-loaded situation.
On the mound, Holmes (3-4) tossed 6.2 innings en route to the victory, punching out nine while surrendering two hits, one run and three walks. Gibson took over for the final 2.1 frames of action, securing his fifth save of the season while allowing three hits with one walk and setting down five Spartans on strikes.
For UNCG, Jacob Dilley posted two hits while JJ Parsons earned the solo RBI on a seventh-inning walk. Noah Chapman (2-6) pitched a complete 8.0 frames for the Spartans, giving up two earned runs on three hits with one walk while striking out nine as well.
Next up, the three-game weekend set between The Citadel and UNCG continues with game two on Saturday, April 25, with first pitch slated for 2 p.m. at Joseph P. Riley, Jr. Park.
-- #jOURney --