SPRINGFIELD, Mo.—The Bellarmine University opened its 2013Great Lakes Valley Conference season by splitting a doubleheader against Drury University at Meador Park, winning the opener 4-2 before falling 2-1 in extra innings in the night cap.

Bellarmine moves to 5-7 (1-1 GLVC) while the Panthers stay two games over .500 at 8-6 (1-1 GLVC).

In game one, the Panthers got off to a quick lead by scratching out two runs in the bottom of the first. However, the Knights pitching stiffened and the offense registered lone runs in the third, fourth, fifth and eighth innings to claim the victory.

Kyle Grana got the start and pitched five solid innings to pick up his first win of the season.  Jason Sterrett came on in relief and pitched the final four innings allowing just three hits while striking out five and not issuing a walk to earn the save.

 Offensively, the Knights were led by Austin Crutcher, Andy Gehr and Cole Metcalfe, who all had two hits and a run batted in the first game.

Game two was scheduled for seven innings, but it took 12 to decide the outcome as Drury finally broke the 1-1 tie with a 1-out double by center fielder Matt Borguschulte to score Dallas Williams from first.

The Knights were led by Phillip Leopold, who had three of Bellarmine's seven hits.  He also had the lone RBI when his double plated Crutcher, who had singled and stolen second.

Phil Forbis got the start in game two, throwing five innings and giving up a run on four hits.  John Hakemoller—the fifth pitcher for BU in the game—was saddled with the loss, giving up one run in an inning and a third.

Bellarmine will continue their series with Drury tomorrow at Meador Park with the doubleheader set to start at noon (11 a.m. CDT).

GAME 1 BOX (HTM)

GAME 2 BOX (HTM)