COLUMBIA, S.C. - Thomas Berkery hit a two-run homer in the first inning and Mississippi State never lost the lead as the Bulldogs went on to beat South Carolina 7-2 in Southeastern Conference action Saturday.
Mississippi State starter Brooks Dunn (7-4) pitched a complete game, giving up eight hits and striking out six, for the win. The Bulldogs (30-14, 9-10 SEC) got two hits each from Michael Rutledge, Jeffrey Rea and Berkery.
Mike Cisco (5-1) gave up eight hits and five runs in seven innings to take the loss.
The Gamecocks (31-12, 12-8) were led by Ian Paxton, who accounted for both RBIs.
The two teams play the third game in the weekend series on Sunday.
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