NIAGARA UNIVERSITY, N.Y. — Niagara (14-22, 8-13 MAAC) took the series finale by a score of 10-9 against Sacred Heart  on Sunday at Bobo Field.

How it Happened

The Pioneers struck first with three runs in the top of the first inning, highlighted by a two-RBI single from Tim Maguire. Curtis McKay put the Purple Eagles down by one with a two run blast to left center in the bottom of the frame.

Sacred Heart reinstated their three run lead in the second with a two-RBI home run from Alex Ungar. McKay struck again for Niagara in the fourth with a two-RBI single to once again put the Purple Eagles only down by one. Evan Wilde then gave Niagara their first lead of the game with a grand slam to center field.

McKay kept the hot bat going, homering for a second time in the contest to put Niagara up by five. Sacred Heart answered with back-to-back home runs in the sixth to cut the Niagara lead to three.

The Pioneers tacked on two more runs in the seventh to make it a one run game, but the Purple Eagles were able to hold on and win the series.

Nate Bennett got the start for the Purple and White, throwing 3.2 innings, allowing five runs on six hits with five strikeouts. Gage Wheaton came in for relief, allowing four runs on four hits in 2.1 innings of work. CJ Hurley came on to face one batter before Andrew Damiani closed out the game to earn the save.

Niagara Notes

• Niagara is now 2-4 all-time against Sacred Heart.

• McKay set a career-high with four base knocks in the victory.

• McKay also tied a season-high with six RBI.

• Wilde set a career-high with four RBI from his grand slam.

• Brooks extended his on base streak to 28 straight contests with two hits.

Up Next

The Purple Eagles head to Saint Bonaventure for a midweek contest against the Bonnies April 29 with first pitch slated for 3 p.m.