UCF scored a run in the bottom of the eighth and was able to hold on for a 2-1 win over Missouri State once the rain cleared.
With the score tied at one, UCF catcher Chris Taladay hit an RBI-single to right field with one out to give the Golden Knights the lead. Shortly after, lightning came and the game was delayed for about two hours. In the ninth, Missouri State outfielder Spiker Helms walked with one out, but a strikeout and fielder's choice ended the game. The Bears will play the loser of Miami (Fl.) vs. Stony Brook with their tournament lives on the line.
UCF opened the scoring in the bottom of the first when Ronnie Richardson hit a solo home run. Richardson went 2-for-4 with an RBI and two runs scored. Missouri State tied the game in the top of the seventh on an RBI-single from second baseman Kevin Medrano, who went 1-for-5.
Bears starter Nick Petree pitched all eight innings, allowing two runs on six hits. On Thursday, Petree was named the Division I National Player of the Year.
For more on Missouri State's tournament run, stay tuned to SB Nation Kansas City.