CHARLOTTE, N.C. - Freshman Cody Hudson had three hits and five RBI to lead Austin Peay State University's baseball team to an 8-2 victory against Charlotte, Saturday afternoon at Hayes Stadium. The win snapped the Govs three-game losing streak.

As was the case Friday, Austin Peay (9-5) jumped out on top in the first three innings, mainly behind Hudson's efforts. He capped a three-run first inning with a two-run two-out single. Hudson struck again in the third inning with another two-out hit, this time a two-run double. He would later added a run-scoring groundout in the seventh frame to cap his 3-for-5, five-RBI outing.

Unlike Friday's outing the Govs were able to hold on to the early lead Charlotte's offense was unable to get anything started against Austin Peay starter Ryne Harper.

Harper (1-0) picked up his season's first victory backed up by the offensive outburst. He limited the 49ers to one run on three hits while striking out four over five innings.  Harper surrendered his lone run in the second but retired the last nine batters he faced before being lifted.

Austin Peay's offense rapped out a dozen hits. Catcher Trey Lucas had three hits, all singles, and left fielder Adam Browett added a 2-for-4, three RBI outing that included a two-run single in the sixth inning.

Charlotte starter Corey Roberts (1-1) suffered the loss after allowing five runs (two earned) on seven hits and three walks over 4.2 innings. The 49ers used seven different pitchers in the contest.

The 49ers offense managed just six hits against the Govs four pitchers, catcher Zach Williams responsible for both runs with a solo home run off Harper in the second and a sacrifice fly in the ninth, finishing 1-for-2 with two RBI.

Austin Peay returns home for a four-game home stand beginning with a 6 p.m., Tuesday contest against Evansville at Raymond C. Hand Park.

-AP-