SLIPPERY ROCK, Pa. – West Liberty couldn't overcome a fast start by Slippery Rock on Tuesday afternoon, as the Hilltoppers dropped a 10-0 decision in non-conference play.

Slippery Rock came out swinging, putting up five runs in the bottom of the first inning. Despite a solid middle stretch from starter Tanner Pelaez, the early deficit proved too much for the Hilltoppers to recover from. Pelaez (1-1) finished with 5.2 innings pitched, striking out three and walking three, but allowed seven earned runs on eight hits.

Offensively, West Liberty totaled 10 hits but couldn't push a run across. Will Balgo led the charge at the plate, going 3-for-4 with a double, while Connor Huzicka added two hits of his own. Kameron Jackson, Kobe Hill, Noah Mildren, Adam Och, and Jacob Sherman also collected base knocks, but the Hilltoppers stranded 10 runners.

The Hilltoppers turned two double plays defensively, but Slippery Rock continued to add to their lead with a run in the sixth, a wild pitch, and a three-run homer in the eighth that sealed the deal.

The Hilltoppers return home for a four game series with Salem Friday and Saturday at Kovalick Field.