KENNESAW, Ga. – Despite out-hitting Kennesaw State nine-to-five, the University of North Alabama could only score one run and came out on the short end of a 3-1 score in the ASUN Conference baseball opener for both schools.
 
UNA, now 3-17 overall, fell behind 3-0 before scoring a run in the top of the seventh inning. The Lions would not get any closer  despite holding the Owls to just five total hits.
 
Kennesaw State got a home run from Jake Franklin in the first inning and then added a run in the fifth when the Owls drew a bases loaded walk to make it 2-0. The lead expanded to 3-0 in the sixth when Justin Russell stole home on the back end of a double steal.
 
UNA's only run came in the seventh as Drew Hudson and Colt Chrestman both singled and Davis Elliott drove in Hudson with an RBI-single.
 
North Alabama starter Chase Best (0-6) took the loss, allowing two runs on three hits over four and two-thirds innings. He walked two and struckout four. He was the first of five Lion pitchers to appear in the game.
 
North Alabama and Kennesaw State continue the three game series with games on Saturday and Sunday.