WARRENSBURG, Mo. -- The University of Central Missouri baseball team made a pair of third-inning runs stand up as the Mules defeated Pittsburg State University, 2-1, in the opening game of a three-game series Friday (Mar. 4) at Crane Stadium.

UCM starter Tyler House (2-0) limited Pitt State (5-7, 0-4 MIAA) to two hits, and a single run in the top of the second inning. He pitched into the sixth inning, walking two and fanning four batter. Relievers Lucas Williams and Grant Gavin held Pitt State to two hits over the final 3 1/3 inning to preserve the win for the Mules (4-6, 3-1 MIAA).

Pitt State's George Brandecker (0-2) allowed four hits and two runs in 5 2/3 innings. He walked two and registered seven strikeouts.

Matt Elliott's RBI triple in the third knotted the score 1-1. He scored the go-ahead run for the Mules on Dylan Farrell's ground out.

Jack Mercer delivered a run-scoring double that scored Gage Grant in Pitt State's half of the second inning.

The Gorillas and Mules will resume their three-game series with a 2 p.m. game Saturday.