FORT MYERS, Fla. - The University of Dubuque baseball team couldn't withstand the opening 7-1 flurry by the Pioneers in the first two innings as they fall, 9-3, to UW-Platteville on Thursday morning.

The Spartan bats couldn't manufacture runs against the Pioneers (2-3) despite racking up 11 hits. UD (5-7) managed three, one-run innings and were led by SS Gaetano Florio and C Will Doherty who totaled one RBI a piece.

Pioneer starter Mike Boushley (4-4) kept the Spartans at bay after scattering 11 hits, allowing three runs (two earned), while striking out eight in 8.0 innings pitched.

UD starter Trent Van Egtern (1-2) faced a tough test and gave up eight runs (seven earned) on seven hits in 3.0 innings on the bump.

The Spartans are now 16-27 all-time against the Pioneers as the two teams have split their last four meetings.