Hempstead, NY - Delaware's Ryan Cuneo hit three home runs in a six-RBI performance while starting pitcher Brian Rorick allowed just five hits in eight innings as Hofstra dropped a 27-2 decision to the Blue Hens in a CAA contest Friday afternoon at University Field.

Delaware pounded out 30 hits and six homers against four Hofstra pitchers, batting around three times in the opener of a three-game series. Body Fontaine (0-6) took the loss, allowing 13 runs (12 earned) in 2 2/3 innings as the Pride fell to 5-20 and 1-9 against the conference. Thirteen Blue Hens recorded a base hit, helping Delaware improve to 20-11 and 6-4 against the CAA.

The Blue Hens scored four times in the first, led by Chris Nehl's two-run double. Senior Chris Mentrasti put the Pride on the scoreboard in the bottom of the first, lifting a sacrifice fly to score senior Mark Stuckless and cut the deficit to 4-1.

Cuneo responded in the second with the first of his trio of home runs, taking Fontaine deep to center for a two-run shot. Delaware proceeded to the put the game away with a seven-run third inning, capped by Ryan Reed's two-run homer.

Senior pitcher Bobby Neelon struggled in relief, giving up 11 runs in three innings. Pat Dameron laced a two-run single and Cuneo added his second two-run blast to highlight a five-run fifth inning. The Blue Hens tacked on six runs the next inning thanks to home runs from Kyle Davis, Bill Merkler and Cuneo's final long ball.

Hofstra was able to get to Rorick (3-1) one final time in the fifth when Stuckless ripped a RBI-single to center, scoring freshman Mikhal Polan. Stuckless (pictured) finished 2-3 and contributed to both Hofstra runs.

The Pride will get another crack at Delaware Saturday before the series concludes Sunday. First pitch for tomorrow is set for 2 p.m.

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