In its early spring break action from Myrtle Beach, S.C., the Houghton University Highlanders came away with a convincing 10–2 victory over Saint Elizabeth University on Monday morning. Riding a strong offensive start and consistent pitching, the Highlanders improved to 3-0 on the young season, while Saint Elizabeth fell to 0-3.

Highlander Offense Comes Alive Early

Houghton jumped on top in a big way in the second inning, scoring three runs to seize control of the game:

• Nate Hall ignited the frame with a two-run single and later scored on an RBI fielder's choice, giving Houghton a 3–0 lead.

• Hall finished the day with a 4-for-5 performance, driving in two runs and scoring two more, making him one of the standout contributors on offense.

Houghton continued to tack on runs throughout the contest:

• In the fifth inning, Hall stole second and came around to score on a Saint Elizabeth error, extending the lead to 4–2.

• Hall's big day continued in the seventh, where his triple drove in two more runs, followed by scoring again on a wild pitch — a key sequence that swelled the Highlander advantage.

• Houghton's big inning wasn't done there: an additional run in the seventh and two more in the eighth (including a run scored on an error and an RBI single by Matt Riddell) sealed the victory.

James Nelson also sparked the offense, finishing 2-for-4 with four runs scored, while Vincent Lucyszyn contributed key hits and crossed the plate three times himself.

Pitching Staff Holds Steady

On the mound, Aiden Talcott (W, 1-0) led the Highlanders with a solid six innings, allowing just two runs on six hits while striking out five and walking only two.

Relievers Liam Flynn and Mark Lewandowski each tossed scoreless innings to finish the game, preserving the comfortable lead and keeping Houghton's pitching in rhythm.

The Highlanders are back in action Tuesday when they take on Eastern University in a 2:30 p.m. contest.