PEARL, Miss. – Belhaven fell to Rhodes 7-4 in a non-conference matchup at Trustmark Park on Tuesday in a tough midweek matchup. The Blazers were unable to overcome an early offensive outburst by Rhodes and suffered their first defeat of the season.

Rhodes jumped out to an early lead, scoring six runs in the first two innings, capitalizing on a combination of timely hitting and Belhaven miscues. Belhaven answered in the second inning, plating two runs with an RBI single from Parker Ryan and a run-scoring hit by Hayden Roberts.

The Blazers added another in the third when Trey Flettrich scored on a throwing error following a base hit from Tristan Pearson, cutting the deficit to 6-3.

Offensively, Belhaven threatened in the eighth when Owen Abney and Trey Flettrich opened with back-to-back singles. Blake McCarthy's sacrifice fly brought home Abney, making it 7-4, but Rhodes closer Reid Manti shut the door with a four-out save.

Belhaven saw some strong relief outings despite the defeat with freshman righty Michael Scott throwing 3.0 scoreless innings out of the bullpen. John Wade also set down the Lynx in order in his lone inning of work. Hayden Roberts led Belhaven at the plate with two hits and an RBI, while Parker Ryan and Owen Abney each added hits. 

Belhaven looks to bounce back this weekend as they travel to Marshall, Texas to face No. 10 ETBU in a three-game series.

For the latest news on Belhaven Blazers athletics, follow @BelhavenBlazers on Twitter and Instagram, and like us on Facebook. To support Belhaven Athletics check out Team Green Giving.