After an uninspiring 1-2 performance in the Sugar Land Classic, the Roadrunners responded in comeback fashion defeating the Houston Cougars 8-7 Tuesday night at Darryl & Lori Schroeder Park. 

Trailing 7-2 in the bottom of the sixth, the ‘Runners (4-5) bombed three consecutive home runs to bring the Cougars (6-2) within two. UTSA would bring in three more runs in the seventh inning while holding Houston scoreless the remainder of the match to walk away victorious.  

For the fifth consecutive game, UTSA has failed to put points on the board first. When you are chasing a lead for an entire game, it can be hard to gain momentum. The beginning of this contest against the Cougars was no different, leaving viewers with little optimism for a win. 

Houston scored the game’s first two runs in the bottom of the second inning with a two-run home run. UTSA responded with two runs of their own from Hill to tie the match. Houston proceeded to tack on three more runs in the bottom of the fifth to take a commanding 5-2 lead.

When all hope seemed lost, a Roadrunner rally would put UTSA right back into the game. 

The top of the lineup got things started for the ‘Runners with Hill, junior infielder Matt King and senior infielder Alexander Olivo blasting three consecutive home runs. 

With momentum starting to swing in UTSA’s direction, head coach Pat Hallmark brought out his ace, sophomore pitcher Ruger Riojas, to close out the match. Riojas did exactly what was asked of him and threw three scoreless innings, securing the 8-7 victory for UTSA. 

 Inconsistency still plagues UTSA, through nine games most would struggle to identify an overwhelming strength for the ‘Runners, but for now, fans can focus on celebrating a big win against a bitter rival. 

UTSA will look to establish a winning streak as they will next face Grand Canyon University at 6 p.m. Friday at Roadrunner field.