ANNAPOLIS, Md. (Interstat) — Brady Bendik struck out nine over 7 2/3 strong innings and Victor Izquierdo launched a three-run homer as Navy defeated Lafayette 9-1 on Friday evening in a Patriot League series opener at Terwilliger Brothers Field at Max Bishop Stadium.

The Midshipmen (19-13) erupted for five runs in the second inning to take command. Izquierdo’s blast was the big blow, followed later by a two-run homer from Chris Klug in the fifth. Bendik allowed one earned run on eight hits to earn the win.

The Leopards (7-22) scored first on Matt Colella’s first-inning RBI single but managed just the single run. Lafayette starter Antonio Correa threw three hitless innings in relief, but the early deficit proved too large.