By Bryan Levine
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In the midst of a 13-game home stand in which they’ve gone 7-2, the University of Central Florida Knights took on the University of South Florida Bulls in the 107th all-time meeting between the two in-state rivals.

The Knights held a 4-2 lead until the Bulls exploded for a four-run eighth inning, courtesy of the small ball. The bulls were led by outfielder Jimmy Falla who came off the bench in the seventh inning and had two hits and four RBIs in just two at-bats.

D.J. Hicks, who started the game as the designated hitter, came into pitch in the seventh inning when starter Brian Adkins found himself in trouble. With a run already surrendered in the inning, Hicks came in the game with two men on and allowed one of those runners to score. Hicks came out to start the next inning and allowed four runs on four hits.

When faced with the decision on whether or not to take Hicks out of the game or not, Coach Rooney felt it was an easy decision. “D.J. has been very good, obviously, all year and I thought he was the best option,” said Coach Rooney. “You’ve got to be careful bringing in Nick (Cicio) with runners on base, he’s got one of those great change ups and if he gets it up guys have a chance to hit it far.”

Though struggling on the mound, Hicks had a great game at the plate. He went two for three with two long balls and three RBIs. One of his home runs came two batters after Jonathon Griffin went yard when the Knights opened up for a three run fourth.

This weekend the Knights take on Columbia University, who are riding a four game win streak, as they come to town for a three game set. The Lions are 6-3 this season and have a 4-1 record in the state of Florida.