College of Lake County held off a late rally to defeat Oakton College, 9-8, on Saturday at the College of Lake County. The Lancers totaled 12 hits in the contest, compared to 10 for Oakton.

College of Lake County jumped out to an early lead, scoring in the bottom of the 1st inning when Julio Goyo delivered an RBI single. The Lancers added to their advantage in the 2nd inning, highlighted by an RBI single from John Merk to extend the lead to 3-0.

John Merk led the offensive effort for the Lancers, going 3-for-5 at the plate with a single in the 1st inning, another single in the second, and a double in the eighth. Angel Berrios also recorded three hits, while Javy Rolon added two hits in five at bats. Luke Koeller drove in a team-high two runs from the seventh spot in the lineup.

On the mound, Jake Fredrickson started for College of Lake County, allowing three hits and two runs (one earned) over 4.1 innings while striking out three and walking three. Logan Kurth and Matt Self provided relief out of the bullpen to help secure the win.

Oakton mounted a significant comeback in the top of the 9th inning, scoring five runs on five hits. Reinke led the charge with an RBI double, while Robinson added a two-run double. Rohlfing drew a bases-loaded walk, and Lansu contributed an RBI single during the rally.

Despite the late push, College of Lake County maintained its lead to secure the victory. The Lancers were aggressive on the base paths, collecting four stolen bases, and turned two double plays defensively.

Oakton was led offensively by Reinke, who drove in three runs while going 2-for-5. Heath and Dellaria each added two hits in the effort.

College of Lake County returns to action at home on Sunday against Triton College.