OCALA, FL – The College of Central Florida Patriots (9-11, 4-3) overcame a late-inning deficit on Thursday, rallying in the bottom of the eighth to secure a thrilling 7-6 comeback victory over the Daytona State Falcons (10-10, 5-2). The win marks a crucial start to the three-game Citrus Conference series for CF.

Daytona State's offense relied heavily on the long ball early, taking advantage of favorable winds to center field. The Falcons' power display included home runs from Miguel Gonzalez, Chase Wilson, and a two-run shot by Josh Vinciguerra. However, the Patriots matched that power in the fifth inning when Victor Martinez launched his fifth home run of the season.

Despite the Falcons building two separate three-run leads, the Patriots refused to go away quietly. Entering the bottom of the eighth trailing 6-5, Martinez ignited the rally with a leadoff single. After one out, Brett House drew a walk to put the tying run in scoring position. Balint Piros then came through with a clutch, game-tying single to right field.

With the game knotted at 6-6, Juan Concepcion stepped to the plate and battled to a two-strike count before lofting a deep sacrifice fly to right field, allowing House to tag up and slide home with the winning run.

The Patriots' pitching staff combined for 12 strikeouts on the day. Jake Meadows earned a no-decision after a solid six-inning start where he fanned nine batters. Richard Bello (3-1) earned the win after tossing a scoreless eighth inning. Closer Jose Paniagua shut the door in the ninth, striking out one and allowing no hits to secure his second save of the year.

Stat Highlights:

• Victor Martinez: 2-for-4, HR, 2 runs scored.

• Bruno Schafer: 2-for-4, RBI.

• Cal Johnson: 1-for-4, Double, RBI.

The series now shifts to Daytona State College for a Saturday doubleheader. The final two games are scheduled for 1:00 PM and 4:00 PM, weather permitting.