Phoenix, AZ- For the second time in as many starts, Junior Dean Jackson threw a complete game.  But Hope International used a run in the ninth to beat Jackson and Arizona Christian 3-2 on Friday.  Junior Hector Ortiz was 2-4 with a double, RBI, and run scored.

The first two innings set the tone for the game as the Royals (9-8-1, 4-3 GSAC) had a leadoff double left stranded after a double play and HIU left another runner on in the second.  The Firestorm (4-8, 3-4 GSAC) went 1-2-3 in the first before leaving the bases loaded in the second.

In the third, both teams cashed in on their opportunities.  A double, single, stolen base, and another single accounted for the two HIU runs.

ACU used a leadoff single from Senior Christopher Burks, followed by a RBI double from Ortiz, and RBI single for Junior Jake Howard to knot the game at 2-2.

After allowing the two runs, Jackson retired 16 in a row thanks to inducing another double play in the seventh.

But matching Jackson pitch for pitch was HIU's Payton Lobdell.  Actually when all was said and done, both went the distance with Jackson throwing 126 pitches and Lobdell making 118 pitches.  Jackson concluded his effort with 12 strikeouts.

In the ninth, a throwing error opened the door for the Royals.  Jackson almost pitched around it as he retired the next two batters (including a nice diving stop and throw at third by Junior Jacob Rodriguez) and had 1-2 count on the potential third out.  But a smash back through the middle that buzzed Jackson's head plated the game winning run.

The Firestorm had their chances as they had runners reach in four of the final six innings but could not capitalize.

On Saturday, the Firestorm and the Royals will get together for a twin bill at Firestorm Field.  First pitch is scheduled for 11:00 am (AT)/ 10:00 am (PT).