TAHLEQUAH -- Northeastern State's Jaxon Phipps went 3-4 at the plate as the RiverHawks dropped the opener of a three-game set 11-6 to Lindenwood in MIAA action at Rousey Field Friday.

NSU falls to 3-19 on the year and 2-9 in MIAA conference play.

Jonathan Smithey got the nod on the hill for the RiverHawks lasting into the fifth inning.  Smithey gave up four runs on six hits while striking out six on the day.

Phipps led the RiverHawks at the plate, going 3-5 with three singles, Erick Espinosa and Brad Chronister each had two hits apiece.  Colton Wright led the way with two RBI.

Big innings were a staple in the opener.  The RiverHawks allowed 4 second inning runs, before plating five of their own.

The RiverHawks pounded out six hits in the second inning.  RBI singles from Colton Burgess, Colton Wright, Jaxon Phipps, Erick Espinosa gave the RiverHawks a 5-4 lead after two innings.

Blake Freeman scored on a wild pitch in the fourth for the other NSU run.

NSU reliever Trevor Smith took over for Smithey lasted just an inning and third, allowed five runs on five hits to take the loss.  

The RiverHawks and Lions will meet again in game two of the series at Rousey Field on Saturday.  Game time is set for 2:00 p.m.