NEW ORLEANS - A rough ninth inning proved the difference Tuesday night as Xavier Baseball fell 9-4 to SUNO. 

XULA (4-17) led 4-2 heading into the final frame but surrendered 7 runs to take a tough loss. 

The result, while disappointing, featured several positives. 

Shortstop Lawrence Steed went 3-for-3 with an RBI to pace the offense, while first baseman Kai Higginson went 2-for-4 with a double and a run scored. 

Jayden Smith and Ashton Celestine added an RBI apiece, and Jeremy Clark had a run scored. 

Starting pitcher Nate Babinm, who took a no-decision, was impressive with 3 innings pitched, during which he allowed just one hit and no walks while striking 4 and walking no one.   

The Gold Rush return to action Friday and Saturday with a conference home series against No. 20 Houston-Victoria. First pitch is scheduled for 6 p.m. Friday at Skelly-Rupp Stadium.