Western Illinois (2-13) scored an unearned run in the first and collected four runs on five hits in the fourth inning. Four hits produced the Leathernecks' final run in the sixth inning and Western Illinois carried a four-run lead (6-2) into the bottom of the seventh.

The Billikens plated two runs on two hits in the bottom half of the seventh and took the lead with a four-run eighth inning which saw nine players come to bat. A one-out, two-run single by St. Louis' Jordan Hammerman broke a 6-6 tie and the Billikens' Derek Mazzio closed out the game in the top of the ninth despite two hit batters.

Senior Chris Giglio led the Leathernecks offensive attack with a 3-for-4 effort at the plate. Juniors Matt Igara and Austin Cowen both collected two hits and an RBI for Western Illinois, who left 11 runners on base.

Junior right-hander Zach Sterling got the start for the Leathernecks and allowed one run (unearned) and one hit over three innings. Juniors Garrett Bolt, Alexander Zarate and Phillip Tolman combined to allow one run on four hits over three innings out of the bullpen.

Senior Chris Fuchs (0-3) inherited two runners in the seventh and allowed three earned runs on five hits to pick up the loss. Senior Beau Below replaced Fuchs with one out in the eighth inning and was called on to get out of a bases loaded jam. Below walked a batter and gave up two singles as the Billikens took an 8-6 lead they would not relinquish.

Western Illinois begins a three-game weekend series with Missouri State on Friday (March 18). First pitch from Springfield, Mo. is set for 6:30 p.m. CST