OAKLAND CITY, Ind.—The Bellarmine University baseball surrendered six runs in the bottom of the seventh innings as the host Oakland City Mighty Oaks came from behind to slip by the Knights 8-7 in an NCAA Division II non-conference game this afternoon.

Bellarmine had built a 7-2 lead with three runs in the top of the seventh, but the Mighty Oaks sent eight batters to the plate before the Knights could record an out. By the time the dust settled on the inning, Oakland City had plated six runs on seven hits as Bellarmine used three different pitchers in the decisive frame.

Both teams threatened but stranded two runners in the eighth, and after Andy Gehr drew a leadoff walk to start the ninth, the Oaks recorded three straight outs to hold on for the victory.

Bellarmine was led offensively by Austin Crutcher, Phillip Leopold, and Samuel Burke, who each had two hits on the day while Gehr and Michael Morissette drove in two runs apiece.

The Mighty Oaks were led by Eric Barnes, who drove in three while going 3-for-5 at the plate.

The Knights fell to 18-12 on the season while Oakland City improved to 9-19.

Bellarmine now turns its attention to the St. Joseph's Pumas, who visit Knights Field for a crucial GLVC  4-game series this weekend with doubleheaders both Saturday and Sunday.  First pitch is scheduled for noon both days, and Senior Day activities will be held Sunday between games.

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