CHARLOTTE, N.C. – The University of North Carolina Charlotte (10-3) forged a late-inning comeback to defeat the Niagara University baseball team (0-9), 7-6, Sunday at Phillips Field, sweeping the Purple Eagles in the three-game series.

With the Purple Eagles holding a 6-1 lead heading into the final two innings, Charlotte used a four-run eighth inning to gain momentum heading into the ninth inning.

Sophomore Kris Rochelle, who finished with three RBI in the win, opened the scoring in the eighth with a double to left field, scoring O’Brien Taylor and Adam Willard. Rochelle, along with sophomore Spencer Steedley, would later score on a single by freshman Alex Burt.

Trailing 6-5 in the ninth, the 49ers tied the game on a triple by Willard, scoring sophomore Cory Lane from second. With two outs and junior Mike Radanovic (Surrey, B.C.) on the mound, Rochelle singled-in Willard and the game-winning run, capping off the five-run comeback win for Charlotte.

The Purple Eagles opened the game with five unanswered runs over the first five innings, but were unable to close-out the 49ers and earn their first win of the season.

Junior Paul Solini (Liverpool, N.Y.) and sophomore Brian Clifford (Buffalo) each had an RBI and two runs scored in the loss. Junior Jeff Vincent (Baldwinsville, N.Y.) went 2-for-2 with an RBI and a run scored.

Sophomore pitcher Josh Sawatzky (Altona, Man.) went 7 2-3 innings, giving up six hits and striking out four in the no decision.

Junior Erik Walker earned the win for the 49ers, not allowing a hit and striking out one in the ninth.

The Purple Eagles continue non-conference play next weekend, traveling to Morehead State for a three-game series.