VALDOSTA, Ga. – West Alabama struggled to find its offensive rhythm in the series finale against Valdosta State, falling 5-0 on Saturday at Billy Grant Field.

The Tigers managed seven hits but were unable to push any runs across, dropping to 14-9 overall and 8-4 in Gulf South Conference play. The Blazers improved to 12-10 (9-2 GSC) behind a dominant pitching performance.

Valdosta State took an early lead in the second inning when Cole Steinmetz launched a solo homer to left center. The score remained tight until the eighth, when the Blazers broke the game open with four insurance runs. DJ Banks doubled down the left field line to drive in a run, followed by a sacrifice fly from Orlando Pena. A wild pitch allowed another run to score before Hunter Stowe capped the inning with an RBI single.

West Alabama's offense had its chances, with Nick Wilson collecting two hits and Eli Burwash reaching base twice, but the Tigers couldn't capitalize. Valdosta State's pitching duo of Drake LaRoche (3-1) and Ryan Brown (S, 2) stifled UWA, combining for 13 strikeouts in the shutout effort. LaRoche earned the win, striking out 11 over seven innings while allowing just five hits.

Graham Holland (1-1) took the loss for the Tigers, giving up one run on two hits in 2.1 innings. The bullpen kept things close until the late Blazers rally, with Gates Pee and Nolan Phillips combining for five solid innings before Jack Hoppenjans allowed the final run.

West Alabama will look to bounce back on Tuesday, March 11, when they return home to Tartt Field to face William Carey at 4 p.m.