MILLEDGEVILLE, Ga. - The Valdosta State baseball team (11-19) dropped a midweek matchup to Georgia College (13-17) by an 11-9 final Tuesday evening at John Kurtz Field.

Valdosta State jumped out to an early lead, plating two runs in the first inning before adding another in the second to take a 3-0 advantage. Georgia College responded in a big way in the third, using an eight-run frame to flip the game.

The Blazers chipped away throughout the contest, scoring in the fifth and erupting for five runs in the eighth to pull within striking distance, but were unable to complete the comeback.

Junior Charlie Banks led the way offensively, hitting 3-for-4 with three RBI and two stolen bases. Sophomore Parker Ladd added a pair of hits, while senior Brent Howard reached base four times with a hit and three walks, scoring twice.

Junior Ryan Strachan finished with two hits and two RBI, while junior Luke Flading added a double and scored twice. Junior Jason Mack also recorded a multi-hit effort as the Blazers totaled 13 hits on the night.

Georgia College's offense was paced by Carson Phillips, who went 3-for-5 with two RBI, while Cole Huddleston and Blake Bellflower each drove in two runs.

The Bobcats' eight-run third inning proved to be the difference. The lead held despite Valdosta State's late push.

Valdosta State returns to conference play this weekend as the Blazers continue their Gulf South Conference slate at Mississippi College (17-14).

Find live stats, written coverage, streaming links, and more on vstateblazers.com and follow @VState_Blazers as well as @VState_Baseball to stay up to date with the team throughout the season.