The University of Minnesota Duluth softball team fell 9-6 to Minot State University in the opening round of the Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference (NSIC) Tournament at Bowden Field on Wednesday. Despite collecting nine hits and two stolen bases, the Bulldogs could not overcome a four-run second inning by the Beavers.
Daphne Evans set the stage for the Bulldogs with a single through the right side and later scored on a wild pitch in the first inning.
Sierra Thomas walked and crossed home on an RBI single by
Morgan McMillan, giving UMD an early 2-0 lead over Minot State in the first inning. The Beavers responded, scoring on a triple to chip the lead to 2-1 heading into the second inning.
In the second,
Ava Johnson delivered a crucial two-run homer to left center, her ninth of the season, bringing in Evans and extending the lead. However, the Beavers responded with a four-run rally, aided by a two-RBI double, to move ahead 5-4.
UMD tied the score in the third inning when
Khendal Johnson scored on a single by
Serena Timmer. Despite leveling the game, Minot State regained a one-run lead at the end of the inning, making it 6-5.
In the fifth inning,
Khendal Johnson scored again on a double by Timmer, but the Beavers countered with a run of their own, maintaining a 7-6 edge.
The sixth inning saw Minot State widen the lead with its final two runs, resulting in a 9-6 score. UMD was unable to generate further offense, and the final score stood at 9-6.
Emmie Sylvia-Cochran started the game for UMD, pitching in the first two innings, allowing three hits and five runs (three earned), while issuing three walks and recording no strikeouts.
Allyssa Williams relieved Sylvia-Cochran, pitching in the next four innings, conceding four hits and four runs (three earned) with four walks and one strikeout.
Ashley Mandell closed the game without allowing a hit or run, striking out one batter and throwing six of her seven pitches for strikes.
Ava Johnson recorded two RBIs and hit a home run, showcasing her impact at the plate.
Daphne Evans crossed the plate twice and contributed with two stolen bases, adding speed to the lineup.
Khendal Johnson also scored two runs on two hits, demonstrating consistent performance.
Serena Timmer tallied two RBIs with a double, bolstering the team's offense.
The Bulldogs complete the season with a 30-24 overall record and a 15-15 conference record.Â
