Long Beach, Calif. \u2014 Long Beach State put together a strong all-around performance Sunday and carried a one-run lead into the final inning, but San Jose State rallied late to hand the Dirtbags a 3-2 loss in the rubber game of the three-game series.<\/p>\n
The Dirtbags received an outstanding start from right-hander Luke Howe<\/a>, who set the tone on the mound. Howe worked 6.1 innings, allowing one run on five hits while striking out five and not issuing a walk, keeping the Spartans off balance and in check throughout his outing.\u00a0<\/p>\n After San Jose State took a 1-0 lead in the third, Long Beach State answered immediately. Kaiden Smaka<\/a> opened the bottom half with a single and moved into scoring position on a sacrifice bunt before Trevor Goldenetz<\/a> delivered an RBI single to tie the game.<\/p>\n The Dirtbags took the lead in the fifth behind aggressive baserunning and timely hitting. Goldenetz singled and stole second, Camden Gasser<\/a> followed with a base hit, and Trotter Enright<\/a> drove in the go-ahead run with an RBI double to right field to make it 2-1.<\/p>\n Long Beach State continued to create opportunities throughout the afternoon, finishing with eight hits and four walks while placing pressure on the Spartans. Goldenetz led the way with a 3-for-4 performance, a walk, an RBI and two stolen bases. Matt Toomey<\/a> added two hits, including a double, while Gasser and Enright each contributed an RBI.<\/p>\n The bullpen preserved the lead through the late innings. Kaimi Kahalekai delivered a clean eighth to\u00a0send the Dirtbags into the ninth with a 2-1 advantage.<\/p>\n