ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (UNLVRebels.com) – Five RBIs in the opening frame of the contest against New Mexico propelled the UNLV baseball team to a five-run lead to defeat UNM, 18-3, during the first game of a three-game series Friday night at Santa Ana Star Field.

The Rebels saw their record improve to 17-9 (9-1 MW), while the Lobos dropped to 12-14 (5-5 MW).

REBEL OF THE GAME: Joey Walls went 3-for-5 at the plate with four RBIs and three runs scored, including his fifth homer of the season, for the Rebels. 

Josh Ibarra (4-0) earned the win after pitching 5.0 innings with three punchouts and allowing only three runs on six hits. 

Sam Simon (S,1) recorded his first save of the season after going 4.0 innings of relief and allowing only one hit.

Riley Egloff (4-2) was saddled with his second loss of the season after pitching 2.1 innings, allowing 14 runs on 15 hits and only two strikeouts.

UP NEXT: UNLV will continue the three-game conference series against New Mexico Saturday at Santa Ana Star Field. First pitch is scheduled for 6 p.m. (MT). 

-UNLV-