Indians slip past Lipscomb before rain

A thunderstorm waited just long enough to allow Southeast Missouri State University's baseball team to claim the opener of a doubleheader Saturday against Lipscomb University at Capaha Field.

The Indians took a 3-1 lead into the bottom of the fifth inning when rain canceled the remainder of Saturday's doubleheader.

Southeast broke a 1-1 tie in the bottom of the second inning with a pair of runs.

Brian Hopkins scored the game-winning run on a single by Eric Hoffman. Hopkins had opened the inning with a bunt single, stole second and advanced to third on a passed ball. Brice Nicholas, who reached base with a walk, later scored on a double play.

Brad Purcell (6-2) allowed three hits and one unearned run in five innings. He struck out seven batters and walked one.

The Indians had four hits off losing pitcher David Patton (3-4).

Southeast improved to 18-14 while Lipscomb fell to 19-20.

The second game will not be made up.

The Indians return to action Wednesday when they play at 15th-ranked Oklahoma State.