HOUGHTON, NY— A 10-run third inning blew the doors wide open on a 2-2 tie, as the Houghton Highlanders defeated the Alfred Saxons in the conference opener, 21-4.
 
After pounding out nine hits in the third, eight straight Highlanders would reach base safely (without an error), on seven hits, four of which went for extra bases, as Houghton tacked on seven more runs.
 
In all, the Highlanders slugged out 24 hits on the day, their best offensive performance of the year.
 
Kip Bertram picked up his second win of the year on the mound, tossing five solid innings, allowing only two hits and two walks without allowing an earned run.
 
GAME VITALS                           
Score: Houghton - 21| Alfred – 4
Records: Houghton: 9-4 (1-0 Empire 8) | Alfred: 2-11 (0-1 Empire 8)
Venue: Kerr-Pegula Athletic Complex, Houghton University | Attendance: 62
 
KEY STATS:
>> Nate Hall went 4-for-4 with a triple and two RBI, while Ian Slate went 3-for-3 with a double and a triple and three runs scored. 
 
>> Christian Tortorici and James Nelson both went 3-for-4 with a triple apiece, and Qingyang Feng, Kanta Ueno and Ty Kenney all added two hits apiece.
 
>> The Highlanders stretched their current winning streak to eight games, the longest in program history.
 
UP NEXT:
The Highlanders doubleheader against the Saxons, scheduled for tomorrow, has been postponed until Monday at 2:00 p.m.