Western Kentucky University spoiled the 2004 baseball season opener for the UTM Skyhawks Tuesday afternoon at Skyhawk Field, claiming an 8-2 victory.

The visiting Hilltoppers scored six runs in the first three innings and tacked on a pair of runs in the top of the ninth inning. Marcus Ross hit a three-run homer off Skyhawk starter Justin Bryant in the first inning, while Matt Johnston hit a two-run shot off Bryant in the second inning.

Bryant settled down in the third and fourth innings. He gave up four hits and struck out two in the four innings he pitched.

Sophomore Micky Dobson, a Martin native, turned in four solid innings of work for the Skyhawks and made one of the best opening-day impressions on fans. Dobson, a left-hander, gave up two hits and struck out five batters.

"Micky did a great job pitching for us," said Bubba Cates, Skyhawk head baseball coach. "We played a good team today and things weren't all bad."

Cates said his opening day lineup included a lot of talent, but it lacks experience and a little self assurance.

"We are going to be OK once these guys get that assurance they need."

Adam Salter and Brett Spivey drove in runs for the Skyhawks, while Hunter Hart and Bryant Jones opened the season with two hits each.

The Skyhawks travel to Jonesboro Wednesday, Feb. 18 for a single game against host Arkansas State. Action gets under way at 3 p.m.

The Skyhawks will return to Skyhawk Field for a three-game series against Louisana Monroe this weekend. The Skyhawks will play a doubleheader Saturday. The first game begins at noon. Sunday's single game gets started at 1 p.m.