MOUNT PLEASANT, S.C. (Interstat) — The College of Charleston Cougars overcame an early three-run deficit to defeat the Rutgers Scarlet Knights 8-3 on Friday evening at CofC Baseball Stadium at Patriot’s Point.

Rutgers struck first, scoring three runs in the opening inning. The Cougars responded immediately with two runs in the bottom of the first, then took the lead for good with a three-run second inning, highlighted by a two-run double from Gibbs. Charleston added single runs in the fourth, fifth and sixth innings to secure the victory.

The Cougars, who were projected favorites, collected nine hits to Rutgers’ eight. The win gives College of Charleston a 1-0 start to the season, while Rutgers begins 0-1. The teams continue their series with a doubleheader Saturday.