Cougs go yard twice in win over Dawgs

THE COUGS NEVER trailed in the opener of a three game series with the Huskies, slugging their way to a 5-2 win and going yard twice against their cross state rivals.

Matt Argyropoulos and Derek Jones each hit dingers to lead Washington State past Washington on Friday at Bailey-Brayton Field. Adam Conley (5-5) got the victory, giving up two runs while striking out six Dawgs in seven and two-thirds innings.

The Cougars turned a double play in each of the first-four innings.

“Adam Conley did not have his best stuff, but gave us a great effort tonight,” Donnie Marbut said.

The Cougs (18-19, 4-12 Pac-10) were held to just six hits, but they made them count. WSU went on top 2-0 in the second on a double by Taylor Ard followed by Argyropoulos' smash over the right-center field wall. The Huskies (12-26, 3-10 Pac-10) picked up a run in the third but Jones led off the Wazzu fourth with a 'tater down the right field line.

It was the 31st home run of Jones' career, the junior now sits at eighth all-time at Washington State.

In the fifth, Jay Ponciano led off with a double and Adam Nelubowich walked. Brett Jacobs later stroked a two-run single to boost the Cougar lead to 5-1.

Washington added a run in the seventh on three hits but could get no closer.

Paris Shewey worked the ninth for his eighth save, tops in the Pac-10. The lefty moved into a tie for fifth on the Cougar single-season saves list. His 11-career saves are tied for third all-time at Washington State.

The series continues Saturday at noon. Saturday’s game will be televised live on Root Sports (formerly Fox Sports Northwest).