TEANECK, N.J. – LIU defeated Norfolk State 15-4 in the first game of a doubleheader Saturday afternoon.
 
Jake Kelleher helped the Sharks jump out to an early 4-0 lead following a first-inning grand slam, and the team never looked back. LIU was in control the whole way, with Mason Breton going 2-for-5 with a home run and a triple to lead the Sharks with five RBI in the contest. Ryan Rivera, who earned NEC Player of the Week honors to open the 2026 campaign, went 3-for-4 with a double and drove in two. Mike Polubinski also had a three-hit day, complete with a home run and a double. Elijah Fairchild went 3-for-4 and was active on the base paths, scoring three runs. Tyler Benick also homered for the Sharks.
 
Nicholas Finarelli, who was named to the All-NEC Tournament last season, took command for LIU on the mound, striking out ten through six innings.
 
The Sharks' series with Norfolk State will continue on Sunday, March 8 at 12 p.m. at FDU.