Dawson Harman collected three hits including his seventh home run of the season, but it wasn't enough as the College of Central Florida Patriots (10-2, 0-1) fell 8-5 to the Miami-Dade College Sharks (6-6, 1-0) in the Citrus Conference opener for both teams.

Miami-Dade College relief pitcher, Gabriel Cruz struck out seven Patriots in 4.2 innings pitched allowing only three runs on seven hits to earn the win. Former Patriot, Jack Garvey pitched a scoreless ninth inning to earn the save.

Central Florida actually outhit the Sharks 15-14, but it was the Sharks who capitalized on more two out hits with runners in scoring positions. Five Patriots hitters collected two hits a piece, which included Cooper Jones who connected on his second home run on the season.

"You usually don't win conference games by hitting solo home runs and that's what we did today. We didn't get many hits with runners in scoring position" said Head Coach, Marty Smith.

The same two teams will conclude the three game series on Saturday in Miami with a doubleheader. First game is scheduled for 12 PM.