ROME, Ga. -- Pitcher TJ Montgomery had a strong outing, and Stephen Gaylor had three hits, as Berry College defeated LaGrange, 5-1, on Tuesday. The Vikings improved to 1-1; the Panthers are 0-1.

The Vikings scored early and often. BC tallied single runs in the first two frames and added three in third inning for its five runs.

In the first inning, Berry got back-to-back doubles from Gaylor (3-4, 2 runs, double, triple) and Zach Farmer to get its initial tally.

In the next frame, Ryan Smith reached on a fielder's choice. He then stole second and third base before advancing home on an error.

Gaylor tripled with one out in the third inning. He later came around on a double by Doug Heath. Farmer reached on a fielder's choice and later scored on an error. Smith grounded out and scored Heath from third for the Vike's last run.

Montgomery, a freshman, tossed five innings and got his first collegiate win. He struck out seven hitters, allowed no walks and gave up just three hits. Danny Parryand Christian Champions hurled two innings apiece to close the game for the home team.

"We played a full game today, all nine innings," said Berry Head Coach David Beasley. "We didn't do that Saturday. We addressed that and they played a complete ball game today."

Austin Neely went 2-4 for Berry. The Vikings had five extra-base hits in the game.

"Everything we are doing is to prepare for conference play," Beasley said. "We have a young team and to have play for a conference title is something to strive for."

Panther starter Kenneth Strack took the loss. He allowed three runs in 2 1/3 innings for LaGrange. John Brock and Linwood Roberds each collected two hits for the visitors.

Berry's next game is at LaGrange on Tuesday, Feb. 12.