By: Nicholls State University

THIBODAUX, La. – Tied at two in the 14th inning, sophomore Dane Simon lifted a 2-1 elevated fastball over the left-field wall to give the Nicholls State University baseball team its first win of the season Saturday over Southern Illinois University at Ben Meyer Diamond at Didier Field.

The Colonels (1-1) held a 2-0 advantage after four innings following an RBI triple in the first from junior Alec Paz and a sacrifice fly in the fourth via sophomore Nathan Tribble.

Meanwhile starter Jacob Bedevian retired 11 consecutive batters after a two-out single by Addison Fugitt in the third. Bedevian, credited with a no decision, surrendered two earned runs through 8.1 innings, allowing just four hits while striking out four.

The Salukis (1-1) were down to their last out of the game when clean-up batter Alex Lyon roped a double to right field that plated Will LaRue, the tying runner.

Winning pitcher Beau Balado (1-0) entered in the 10th with runners on first and second and walked Brad Hudson to load the bases. The Hammond native sat down the next two batters and struck out four while allowing just two hits during the next four innings.

Matthew Steidl (0-1) was credited with the loss as the Simon homer was his only hit allowed during his four innings of work.

The two sides will play a rubber match at the Did Sunday at noon.

Visit geauxcolonels.com for the most up-to-date information on Nicholls baseball. Be sure to follow the team on Twitter @Nicholls_BASE.