ST. JOSEPH, Mo. – A five-run eighth inning propelled Northeastern State to a 7-5 comeback win over Missouri Western on Saturday at the Spring Sports Complex.

The RiverHawks (7-8, 4-3 MIAA) trailed 3-2 heading into the eighth but capitalized on timely hitting and a pair of walks to take control. Gage Williams delivered the biggest hit of the game, launching a grand slam to put NSU ahead for good.

Williams finished 3-for-3 with four RBI, including a double earlier in the game. Tanner Almond added a two-run single in the first inning, while Diego Murillo scored twice.

Missouri Western (1-14, 0-7 MIAA) took an early lead with two runs in the first and held NSU scoreless for five straight innings before the RiverHawks' late surge. The Griffons added two runs in the eighth but couldn't complete a rally.

Gus Collins (3-1) earned the win, pitching 7.2 innings while allowing five runs on nine hits with four strikeouts. Izac Sizemore recorded the save, retiring the final four batters of the game.

Northeastern State finished with six hits but made the most of its opportunities, drawing eight walks and getting hit by a pitch four times.