DURHAM, N.C. - North Carolina Central overcame a five-run deficit to Saint Augustine's University by scoring two runs in the seventh inning, three runs in the bottom of the ninth to force extra innings, and the game-winning run in the 10^th frame courtesy of a passed ball, as the host Eagles rallied for a 9-8 victory on Monday night inside the Durham Athletic Park.

Junior designated hitter Troy Marrow topped NCCU's offense by going 3-for-4 at the plate with two RBI and a run scored. Marrow was also hit by a pitch for the ninth time in 11 games this season and improved his team-high batting average to .433 (13-for-30).

The top of the Eagles' lineup - senior center fielder Akeem Hood, junior third baseman Dylan Drayton and senior right fielder Luis Diaz - did their job by reaching base and scoring two runs each. Junior left fielder Tyson Simpson helped clear the bases with 2 RBI, while freshman first baseman Christian Triplett drove in the game-tying run in the ninth inning with a towering blast to the base of the left field wall for a double.

NCCU freshman hurler Andrew Vernon came on in relief and held the Falcons scoreless for the final two-and-two-thirds innings to earn the win, his first on the college level.

St. Augustine's (11-8) was led by catcher Claren Peace, who recorded three hits, including two doubles, and scored twice. Left fielder Jason Baytop added two hits with a two-run triple and two runs scored.

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