DANVILLE, Va. — The Averett University baseball team dropped its series opener by the final of 9-3 against Methodist University on Saturday afternoon in USA South Conference action.

Methodist (8-4, 1-0 USA South) plated four runs in the top of the second inning to take a 4-0 advantage, however, Averett capitalized on a three-run third inning to cut the deficit to 4-3.

Averett (0-10, 0-4 USA South) tallied its first run off junior Tanner Bradshaw's RBI single through the left side and struck for two runs when junior Ryan Traylor doubled down the right field line.

The Monarchs added three insurance runs in the top of the fourth inning, before scoring two more runs in the sixth inning to hold on for the 9-3 victory.

Bradshaw continued his hot streak from the plate finishing 2-3 on the afternoon, while also drawing two of the Cougars 10 walks on the afternoon.

Additionally, sophomore Brandon Hatcher, seniors Cody Jones, Andrew Lancaster, Zack DeCarlo and Traylor all tallied hits for the Cougars.

While junior Ben Kimberlin and senior Alex Ansted threw will in relief for Averett, both pitching one complete inning, combining for two strikeouts and allowing just one hit.

The Cougars return to action on Sunday when they host Methodist for a doubleheader beginning at noon.