MARYVILLE, Mo. – A strong start and a dominant pitching performance led Northeastern State to a 4-1 victory over Northwest Missouri State on Saturday at Bearcat Softball Field.

The RiverHawks (9-17, 3-5 MIAA) struck early, scoring two runs in the first inning before adding two more in the third. Lauryn Heinle led the offense, going 3-for-4 with a double and two runs scored. Olivia Brown drove in two runs, while Madison Heinle and Korynn Tindel each contributed hits.

Gracie Turner (4-2) was stellar in the circle, tossing a complete game while allowing just one run on five hits. She struck out two and walked three over seven innings, keeping the Bearcats (10-15, 0-4 MIAA) off balance.

Northwest Missouri's only run came in the third inning, cutting NSU's lead to 4-1, but Turner shut them down the rest of the way. The RiverHawks' defense turned two double plays and stranded five Bearcat runners on base.

Northeastern State will return home next weekend as it continues MIAA play.