KEARNEY, Neb. – Early defensive miscues proved costly as Northeastern State allowed nine unearned runs and fell to Nebraska-Kearney, 10-5, in Monday's series opener.

The Lopers (20-18, 6-7 MIAA) jumped out to an early lead, plating four runs in the first inning. NSU's Korynn Tindel trimmed the deficit in the second with an infield single, extending her hitting streak to eight games.

Nebraska-Kearney added to its advantage in the bottom of the second, sending 10 batters to the plate and scoring five runs to stretch the lead to 9-2. Charlea Cochran brought in two more runs for the RiverHawks before the Lopers answered with their 10th run in the third.

Tindel launched her fourth home run of the season in the sixth inning, finishing with three RBI on the day.

Despite the loss, the RiverHawks (13-28, 6-13 MIAA) outhit the Lopers, 12-8. Madison Nance reached base four times and recorded a pair of doubles.