TAHLEQUAH, Okla. – Northeastern State's offense was unstoppable Friday night, racking up 18 runs on 17 hits in an 18-15 slugfest victory over Washburn at Rousey Field.

The RiverHawks (9-10, 6-4 MIAA) jumped out early with five runs in the first inning and never looked back, scoring in five of the first six frames. They built a commanding 14-8 lead by the fifth and held off a late rally by the Ichabods (12-10, 6-4 MIAA).

Colton Ayres led the charge with a 3-for-5 performance, driving in a run and scoring once. Jackson Dillingham added four RBI, while Diego Murillo homered twice. The RiverHawks capitalized on eight walks and four hit batters, keeping pressure on Washburn's pitching staff throughout the game.

Washburn made things interesting in the late innings, scoring in seven different frames, including a six-run fifth. Jett Buck crushed a grand slam for the Ichabods, and Jackson Mervosh added a three-run homer, but it wasn't enough to erase the early deficit.

Northeastern State's pitching was tested but did enough to secure the win. Cristian Hernandez (1-0) picked up the victory as the fifth pitcher used out of the bullpen.  Holden Yaksick went three innings and Izac Sizemore earned his second save of the season.

The RiverHawks will look to carry their offensive momentum into Saturday's matchup as they continue their series against Washburn at Rousey Field.