Phoenix, AZ- Trailing from the top of the first inning until the bottom of the eighth, Arizona Christian used a three run eighth inning to move ahead in their 5-3 win over Biola on Friday.  Junior Hector Ortiz concluded the day 3-5 with two RBI.  Senior AJ Arroyo was 3-4 with a double, two RBI, and two runs scored.

Before the crowd had even settled in, the Eagles (10-16, 3-7 GSAC) were a home run short of the cycle in their first three at bats as they doubled, tripled, and singled.  Another double capped the scoring and Biola held a 3-0 edge after just a half inning of play.

However, Senior Dean Jackson settled in nicely from there as he allowed just two more hits over his final seven innings.  Despite striking seven in eight innings, Jackson needed help to turn a potential loss into a win.

In the second inning, Junior Jose Pereyda singled but was erased on a fielder's choice.  Arroyo doubled to drive home Sophomore Michael Dunnebecke.  Two batters later, Ortiz singled home Arroyo to bring the Firestorm (9-11, 6-7 GSAC) within a score of 3-2.

But ACU managed just three singles and two other base runners over the next five innings.

Still chasing one in the bottom of the eighth, the Firestorm scored three runs without the benefit of an extra base hit.  Pereyda, Dunnebecke, and Arroyo all singled with one out to start the rally.  Arroyo collected one RBI before Dunnebecke scored on an error and Ortiz singled home the final run.

Now with the change of events, Jackson (2-3) stood in line for the win.  Sophomore Wade Mason relieved Jackson in the ninth trying to close the deal.  Biola made things a little interesting but Mason used a double play to help lock down the save- his second of the year.

On Saturday, the two teams will close out the series with a doubleheader at Firestorm field.  First pitch is scheduled for 11:00 am (AT)/ 10:00 am (PT).