February 9, 2006

CEDAR CITY, Utah - Utah Valley State scored five runs with two outs in the 8th to erase a 4-1 deficit, but Southern Utah senior Jeff Oliverson delivered a one-out bases loaded double in the bottom of the 9th to give the T-Birds a come-from-behind 7-6 win on opening day in Cedar City.

"We had our chances," said UV head coach Steve Gardner. "We were right there, we just gave them too many opportunities." 

Sophomore Adam Openshaw, playing his first game back after serving and LDS mission, delivered two clutch hits for UV, the first coming on a solo home run in the top of the 7th inning to get the Wolverines on the board. Then in the top of the 8th, Openshaw blasted a two-out three-run double to give Utah Valley a 6-4 lead. He finished the day 3-for-4 at the plate. 

"He has worked so hard and I'm so happy for him," said Gardner of Openshaw. 

Senior pitcher Brett Guerrero, who came on in relief in the 6th inning, retired SUU's Charlie Hahl to lead off the bottom of the 9th. Following a walk and an error, sophomore Marcus Moore entered for the Wolverines. After an infield single by Amos Burgess, Oliverson delivered the fateful double, pinning Moore with the loss. Jeff Gillins, who gave up the three-run double to Openshaw, picked up the win for Southern Utah.

Senior Kalen Parsons got the start on the mound for Utah Valley State, giving up four runs (three earned) in five innings of work while striking out four..

SUU starter Kasey Hubbard pitched seven strong innings, allowing only one run on the homer by Openshaw, but was forced to take a no-decision.

Brad Hales had two hits for the Wolverines, while Kade Boyer had an RBI in his Wolverine debut.

The two teams will meet again tomorrow at 1:00pm. The game can be heard via KSUU 91 in Cedar City by clicking HERE.