MARYVILLE, Mo. -- Northeastern State came out swinging early, but Northwest Missouri State responded with a big middle innings surge to hand the RiverHawks a 12-6 loss on Sunday afternoon at Bearcat Field.
Northeastern State (13-27, 8-20 MIAA) grabbed the early lead with a two-run second inning and added two more in the fourth to briefly stay within striking distance. The RiverHawks tallied 10 hits on the day, including four doubles, showcasing consistent extra-base production throughout the lineup.
Trace Chamblee led the way with two hits and two RBI, while
Jaxon Gregory added a pair of hits and scored twice.
Gunner Lakins,
Trout He, and Gregory each recorded doubles as part of the RiverHawks' four extra-base hits.
Northwest Missouri State (29-13, 19-9 MIAA) broke the game open in the third inning, plating five runs, highlighted by a three-run home run from Wilmer Jimenez. The Bearcats followed with three more runs in the fourth to extend their advantage.
The RiverHawks continued to battle, adding single runs in the fifth and seventh innings, but were unable to overcome the deficit.
Ty Presley (4-3) took the loss after allowing 10 runs, nine earned, over 5.1 innings.
The series concludes Monday at 1 p.m. as Northeastern State looks to bounce back in the finale.