TAHLEQUAH, Okla. -- Northeastern State used an early offensive surge to defeat Fort Hays State 7-2 on Thursday, evening the MIAA series at one game apiece.
The RiverHawks (15-29, 10-22 MIAA) struck quickly after allowing two runs in the opening inning, responding with three runs in the first and adding four more in the second to take control.
Stephen Osborne highlighted the inning with his third home run of the season, giving Northeastern State the lead for good.
Jaxon Gregory added two hits and an RBI, while
Joseph Perry and
Xavier Sanchez each drove in runs as part of a balanced offensive effort.
On the mound,
Brazen Bockius (1-2) earned the win, allowing two runs over five innings. The bullpen combination of
Bryce Bond and
Holden Yaksick shut the door, with Yaksick picking up the save.
The game moved quickly, lasting just 2 hours, 5 minutes.
With the win, Northeastern State split the first two games of the series with Fort Hays State. The series is scheduled to conclude Friday on Senior Day, with first pitch to be determined due to potential weather.