CLARKSVILLE, Tenn. - Senior right-hander Ricky Marshall battled through a shaky start and Austin Peay State University's baseball team opened its 2010 campaign with a 15-7 victory against Illinois State, Friday night, in the opening game of the Riverview Inn Classic at Raymond C. Hand Park.

Marshall (1-0) surrendered runs in each of his first four innings, including a three-run first inning, but fought through the early season rust to post a scoreless fifth inning. He went five innings allowing six runs on 10 hits and three walks while striking out four.

Austin Peay (1-0) saw its offense get off to an encouraging start with 15 runs on 14 hits, scoring in six of its eight innings. After falling behind by three runs in the first the Govs took the lead with a four-run second. After falling behind in the fourth the Govs scored the game's next 10 runs to break open the contest.

Left fielder Matt Kole and designated hitter Cody Hudson each had three hits. Second baseman Jon Clinard and catcher Trey Lucas each finished with three RBI.

Illinois State (0-1) managed just four runs after its three-run first inning. The Redbirds defense also showed early signs of rust, committing three errors which led to five unearned runs. Starter Ryan Camp (0-1) was tagged for the loss after allowing seven runs on seven hits and five walks over four innings.

The Riverview Inn Classic continues when Illinois State and Iowa square off in an 11 a.m., Saturday contest. The Govs will play the day's second contest when they host Iowa in a scheduled 3 p.m. outing.

- AP -