DOVER, Del. --The Delaware State Hornets took an 8-5 lead into the ninth inning, but could not hold on and fell 9-8 to the UMBC Retrievers Wednesday.

Junior Brandon Hatch (0-3) took the loss on the mound for Delaware State (16-24). Freshman Eddie Del was a bright spot out of the bullpen, going 2.1 shutout innings while allowing two hits, walking none and striking out three.

Trailing 4-0, the Hornets first put runs on the board in the sixth inning. Delaware State's offense started clicking and put up seven runs, including a two-run double off the bat of senior Krew Bouldin and a two-run home run from senior Wilfredo Mendez.

The Hornets then lost some of their lead, expanding on their advantage in the eighth inning after the Retrievers cut it to 7-5. Delaware State scored once on an RBI single off the bat of freshman Jaryn Sample, which brought the Hornets lead to 8-5. The Hornets were unable to hold the lead, as UMBC scored four times over the remaining one inning to grab the 9-8 win. UMBC was led offensively by senior Swenda, who went 2-for-5 with a double, a home run and four RBI. Junior Kelly led the Retrievers pitching staff, throwing 1.2 scoreless innings.

Up Next...
The Hornets will return Friday, May 10 when they host UMES for a three game series. First Pitch is scheduled for 3:00 p.m.