Bears win behind pitching, timely hitting in triumph

CONWAY, Ark. — Central Arkansas got a strong performance from its pitching staff and timely hitting to pick up a 5-1 victory over South Dakota State in the opening game of the weekend series at Bear Stadium.

UCA improved to 6-4 on the season while the Jackrabbits fell to 3-6.

The Bears struck first in the opening inning. After reaching on a triple into left-center field, Nate Negre came home on a groundout by Zeb Allen.

UCA took a 1-0 lead and set the tone early.

The Bears continued to apply pressure after the early frame.

Allen’s grounder brought in the game’s first run, and UCA kept working quality at-bats to stay ahead.

The Bears stayed patient against South Dakota State pitching.

UCA looked for pitches in the zone and moved runners into scoring position whenever possible.

The Bears showed balance at the plate and on the bases. Allen’s early RBI gave UCA confidence, and his activity on the bases added another layer to the offense.

The Bears added to their lead in the fourth inning.

With a runner aboard, Allen launched a two-run home run to right field, pushing UCA ahead 3-0 as the game moved into the middle innings.

Bears add runs behind Negre, Allen strong night

The Bears extended the lead again in the sixth inning. Parker Gwyn delivered an RBI single that allowed UCA to stay in control and stretch the margin.

The Bears saw South Dakota State answer with a solo home run in the sixth, cutting the deficit to 4-1. UCA responded calmly and didn’t allow momentum to shift.

The Bears created more separation in the seventh inning. Singles from Casey Shipley and Jayden Sloan set up another scoring chance, and UCA capitalized with a clutch hit through the right side to make it 5-1.

The Bears benefited from a steady night by Negre, who recorded two hits and scored twice. UCA relied on his early triple to spark the offense.

The Bears leaned on Allen throughout the game. He finished with three hits, four RBIs, a home run and two stolen bases, giving UCA production in multiple ways.

The Bears combined timely hitting with smart base running. UCA built the lead step by step and avoided giving South Dakota State opportunities to climb back.

Pitching staff holds strong behind Hamilton

The Bears received a quality start from Denver Hamilton. He worked 6 1/3 innings, allowed four hits and one earned run, and struck out five. UCA trusted him to manage traffic and he delivered.

The Bears turned to Braxton Haywood in relief. He tossed 1 2/3 scoreless innings with three strikeouts, and UCA maintained control late in the game.

The Bears closed things out with Hunter Alexander in the ninth inning. He retired the side without allowing a runner, securing the win for UCA.

The Bears’ pitching staff combined for nine strikeouts while limiting South Dakota State to four hits. UCA avoided big innings and forced weak contact.

The Bears matched their offensive production with consistent work on the mound. UCA’s complete effort on both sides helped secure the 5-1 result.

The Bears now carry momentum into the next matchup. UCA will look to build on this balanced performance moving forward.

What’s next

The Bears return to Bear Stadium on Saturday for game two of the series against South Dakota State.

UCA is scheduled for a 4 p.m. first pitch as the weekend continues in Conway.