WESTWEGO, La. — Anthony Fernandez's grand-slam sparked a six-run first inning Tuesday in NAIA No. 21 Loyola's 11-1 baseball victory against Xavier University of Louisiana.
        The game between city rivals ended in the bottom of the seventh because of the 10-run rule.
        XULA's only hits were singles by Cohen Boyd, Kai Higginson and Lawrence Steed, who also walked. Steed's infield single drove home Higginson in the the fourth.
        Loyola pitchers combined for 13 strikeouts, nine by starter and winner Charlie Nichols. The Wolf Pack had six extra-base hits, including a Fernandez triple.
        XULA is 1-6, and Loyola is 9-3.
        XULA will play its home opener at 2 p.m. Friday: a Red River Athletic Conference doubleheader at Skelly-Rupp Stadium against Jarvis Christian. Venue address is 2515 Vespasian Blvd., New Orleans LA 70114. The Gold Rush and Bulldogs will meet at noon Saturday to complete their three-game series.