LEWISTON, Idaho – #6 William Carey University opened up play in the Avista NAIA World Series with a 6-4 victory over Bellevue (Neb.) Friday evening at Harris Field.

The Crusaders took an early 2-0 lead on a Rigoberto Hernandez two RBI double to rightcenter in the first inning.  The score would remain 2-0 Carey until the fifth when Hernandez delivered once again with another two RBI double.

Starting pitcher Andrew Shirah was cruising along until the seventh when he ran into trouble.  However, Shirah was able to work out of the jam allowing one run.  But in the top of the eighth the Bruins broke through. After back to back walks to start off the inning, Mathieu Sirois tied the game at four all with a three run homerun.

WCU wasted no time in retaking the lead, as RJ Stinson drove in Kris Jones with a double to leftcenter and Jake Lycette added an insurance run with a sac fly.

Hernandez finished the game going 3-4 with four RBI while Stinson and Bobby Lada both had a pair of hits.  Preston Ratliff (W, 5-3) earned the win in relief recording the last four outs.

Carey is back in action Monday, May 29, as they take on the winner out of Southeastern (Fla.) and Lewis Clark.  First pitch is scheduled for 8:35 pm CST.