Smyrna, Tenn. -- The Youngstown State bowling team fought through some tough pairs to pick up four head-to-head victories on the first day of the Music City Classic. The three-day tournament is being hosted by Vanderbilt at the Smyrna Bowling Center.

The Penguins had Baker totals ranging from as low as 847 to as high as 1,128 in consecutive matches as lane conditions changed rapidly from pair to pair in the 33-team field. Youngstown State finished the day with a 4-1 record, and its total pinfall of 4,982 was sixth overall and just six pins out of fourth.

"The ladies did an excellent job today staying cool and calm as we navigated the ups and downs across the house," said YSU head coach Doug Kuberski. "They showed a lot of heart and were able to put some tough games behind them in impressive fashion. They inspire me to elevate with their powerful energy. I'm really proud of their effort and can't wait to continue our work together this weekend."

The Penguins dropped their opening match 935-919 to Belmont Abbey as the Crusaders' anchor struck three times in the 10th frame of game five, but they bounced back with four straight victories to end the day.

The run began with a 1,060-788 win over Lewis, and the Penguins followed with a 1,028-853 victory over No. 17 Valparaiso. Youngstown State then battled the elements to edge Howard 847-842, and it finished the Baker round by firing a 1,128 set in a 148-pin win over No. 18 Sacred Heart.

Jacksonville State leads the field with 5,385 total pins, Arkansas State is second at 5,139, and Sam Houston shot 5,061 to sit third. Six pins separate the next three places as North Carolina A&T totaled 4,988 pins, Vanderbilt shot 4,983, and YSU fired a 4,982.

Qualifying at the Music City Classic will continue on Saturday with five traditional matches beginning at 10:30 a.m. Eastern.

Match 1 vs. Belmont Abbey
Starting Lineup: Ennis, Drescher, Moore, Cote, Marx
L: 919-935

Match 2 vs. Lewis
Starting Lineup: Ennis, Drescher, Moore, Cote, Marx
W: 1,060-788

Match 3 vs. No. 17 Valparaiso
Starting Lineup: Ennis, Drescher, Moore, Cote, Marx
W: 1,028-853

Match 4 vs. Howard
Starting Lineup: Grams, Doseck, Moore, Cote, Marx
W: 847-842

Match 5 vs. No. 18 Sacred Heart
Starting Lineup: Grams, Drescher, Marx, Moore, Cote
W: 1,128-980