Big first inning propels #Gamecocks to 8-1 win over Belmont (AUDIO)

USC scored four first inning runs, and four pitchers combined on a four hitter, as the Gamecocks downed Belmont 8-1 Friday night at Founders Park. The Gamecocks are 6-0, and the teams will play the second game of the three-game series on Saturday afternoon.

Parker Noland had a two-run homer and Dylan Brewer a two-run single in the bottom of the first inning as the Gamecocks jumped out to their 4-0 lead. A two-run double by Gavin Casas in the bottom of the third made it a 6-0 game. Two innings later, Casas drove in his third run of the game with a single to give USC a 7-0 lead.

Belmont scored their lone run in the top of the sixth on a bases loaded walk. The Gamecocks got that run back in the bottom of the seventh as Will Tippett hit a bases-loaded ground ball to second for a fielder’s choice.

Eli Jones started on the mound for USC and pitched three scoreless innings. He struck out three and allowed one base runner by hitting a batter. Tyler Pitzer worked the next three innings and earned the win despite allowing Belmont’s lone run. He gave up four hits and walked three while striking out five.

Tyler Dean and Joey Wittig finished up and did not allow a hit over the final three innings.

Brewer had three hits on the day and is now batting .591, a team high among the regulars. Casas had two hits and his now hitting .333.

Box Score

Mark Kingston postgame press conference