The University of Pikeville built a three-run lead only to see Bluefield (Va.) University rally for the final six runs in a 9-6 decision on Friday in the opener of the three-game weekend series.
 
The teams not only combined for 15 runs but also hammered out 29 hits in the contest. Surprisingly, only three of those went for extra bases.
 
UPike (12-15, 7-9 in the AAC) had three players with three hits each. Centerfielder Riley Paulino had the team's only double and scored a run, left fielder Noah Brooks scored twice and drove one in and shortstop Francis Subero, who drove in two.
 
Second baseman Cam Revolt had a hit and scored two, while designated hitter Garren Gledhill posted a hit and two RBIs. Catcher Tanner Gerosa had a hit and an RBI, while his courtesy runner Connor Moody scored a run. Right fielder William Kelley also had a single.
 
Bluefield (12-11, 7-6) had six players enjoy multiple hit games. John Greenawalt (two runs batted in and a run scored), first baseman Nick Stergiou (three RBIs and a run) and centerfielder Bryce Medlock (two runs) had three hits apiece.
 
Shortstop Andres Vega (an RBI and a run scored), right fielder Aidan Brown) and left fielder Ray Garcia (run and RBI) each had two.
 
Starting pitcher Isaac Berry pitched 6-1/3 innings and got the decision, falling to 3-2 on the season. Richtter Castillo threw the final 2-2/3 innings.
 
Joe Gaither (4-1) pitched the first five innings and got the win. Tyrone Woods allowed only one hit in the final three innings to pick up his fifth save of the season.
 
The Bears and Rams will play a doubleheader on Saturday to complete the series. The first pitch is scheduled for noon at Johnnie LeMaster Field.