GULF SHORES, Ala. -- Northeastern State continued its fast start to the 2026 season Sunday afternoon, using a seven-run third inning to pull away from Valdosta State in an 7-3 victory at the Gulf Shores Invitational.

The win pushed the RiverHawks to 4-0 on the season, marking the program's first 4-0 start since 2012.

Valdosta State scored single runs in each of the first three innings to take a 3-0 lead, but Northeastern State responded emphatically in the bottom of the third. The RiverHawks sent 10 batters to the plate in the frame, collecting five hits and taking advantage of aggressive baserunning to swing momentum.

Madison Nance delivered the biggest hit of the inning, singling to left field to drive in two runs and spark the rally. Ashlynn Turner followed later in the frame with a two-run double, while Jayln Fourkiller added an RBI single as Northeastern State built a 6-3 advantage.

The RiverHawks added an insurance run in the fourth inning when Nance knocked in her third RBI of the game with a single to left. Nance finished 2-for-4 with three RBI, while Korynn Tindel went 2-for-4 with two runs scored and a double. Fourkiller collected two hits and an RBI, and Northeastern State totaled 11 hits in the win.

In the circle, Cameron Kimball worked the first three innings before turning the ball over to Jensyn Elder (2-0), who earned the win. Elder tossed four shutout innings, allowing just one hit while striking out two to close out the game.

Northeastern State will return to action Feb. 7–8 in Tyler, Texas, as the RiverHawks continue their early-season road swing.