LOUISVILLE, Ky. — Bellarmine used a strong all-around pitching effort to defeat Central Arkansas 5-2 on Saturday afternoon, evening the ASUN series at one game apiece.

AJ Swader powered the Bellarmine offense, finishing with three RBIs, including a solo home run to open the scoring and a two-run double that helped create separation for the Knights.

The Knights got on the board early with Swader's solo shot in the first inning. Bellarmine added another run in the second before extending the lead in the fourth on his two-RBI double.

On the mound, Bellarmine delivered one of its most complete performances of the season. After two scoreless innings from Karl Ralamb, the bullpen took control, combining for seven innings while allowing just two runs.

A key stretch came in the middle innings as the Knights held Central Arkansas hitless over four consecutive frames, maintaining control of the game. The Bears threatened in the seventh, but Bellarmine limited the damage and preserved the lead before closing it out in the ninth.

The Knights finished with 11 hits on the day, with contributions throughout the lineup in support of the pitching staff.

Bellarmine and Central Arkansas will meet in the rubber match of the series tomorrow at 2 p.m. ET. 

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