NORMAL, Ill. - Austin Peay's baseball team scored the game's first run, but could not maintain the lead in a 6-2 loss to Illinois State, Friday afternoon, at Duffy Bass Field.

Austin Peay (8-8) got on the board first with catcher P.J. Torres' first collegiate home run - a solo blast in the third inning. However, he was one of just four Govs baserunners through the first six innings.

Illinois State (12-5) scored the game's next six runs, with two runs in the fourth, sixth in eighth innings. Left fielder Tyler McNeely was responsible for the majority of the damage, finishing the day 4-of-4 with four RBI. He had a RBI single in the fourth, a RBI double in the sixth and a two-run home run in the eighth.

The Govs threatened in the ninth, loading the bases with one out. Shortstop Reed Harper scored the Govs second run with a single. However, Austin Peay could not keep the rally going, with Illinois State turning a double play to end the inning.

Redbirds starter Corey Maines (3-0) recorded the victory courtesy the offensive outburst. He held the Govs to one run on four hits while striking out six over seven innings. Maines only faced a runner in scoring position twice in his outing.

Austin Peay starter Jack Snodgrass (0-2) surrendered a season-high four runs and was saddled with his second consecutive loss. He allowed nine hits and struck out four over seven innings.

Right fielder Rolando Gautier extended his hit streak to 15 games with a ninth-inning single. Second baseman Jordan Hankins reached safely for the 16th straight game, finishing the day 2-for-4.

Austin Peay and Illinois State continue their three-game series with a 2 p.m., Saturday contest.

-AP-