CONWAY, S.C. (Interstat) — Ross Norman delivered eight strong innings and Coastal Carolina erupted for six runs in the eighth to defeat East Carolina 7-1 on Saturday afternoon at Springs Brooks Stadium.

Braden Burress gave the Pirates an early lead with a first-inning home run, but Norman settled in, allowing just four hits and one earned run while striking out four. The game remained tied 1-1 until the Chanticleers’ decisive eighth. Rex Watson broke the deadlock with a three-run homer, and Brice Estep added a two-run shot later in the inning.

East Carolina starter Gavin Van Kempen was sharp over seven innings, allowing one unearned run and striking out 11, but relievers faltered in the eighth. Coastal Carolina improved to 9-5-1, while East Carolina fell to 7-7-1. The teams conclude their series Sunday.