The Salukis (8-5) took their first lead of the game, 7-3, in the sixth inning and held on to beat Eastern Illinois (4-13) 8-6.
A four-run sixth inning was capped for the Salukis on a two-RBI home run from junior outfielder Merri Ann Patterson, her second of the season.
The Salukis pushed EIU sophomorepitcher Michelle Rogers past the 100-pitch mark during the inning, making her throw 27. SIU worked three-straight full counts before Rogers was relieved by sophomore Jessica Wireman with two outs.
Freshman left fielder Eyrika Brandenburg followed Patterson’s homer with an RBI single and senior shortstop Kelsey Gonzalez plated her with an RBI single of her own.