ST. CHARLES, Mo. – Western Illinois dropped a 4-2 decision to Lindenwood on Sunday, April 13th at Lou Brock Sports Complex, despite a promising early performance on the mound and timely scoring opportunities.
The Leathernecks struck first in the second inning when catcher RyLee German reached on a single and came around to score on a sacrifice fly from Rylee Boone. The offense was limited to five hits, including an RBI single from Maria Luna in the sixth that briefly trimmed Lindenwood's lead to 4-2.
Kaylee Ketcherside led the way at the plate with a double, her sixth of the season, while Sophia Sanchez and Ruby Tarr each chipped in a hit. Tarr and Lillie Wools both reached base after being hit by pitches, helping load the bases in the sixth, but the Leathernecks couldn't capitalize further.
Libby Spaulding started in the circle for WIU, allowing one run on two hits over two innings. Audrey Clark followed but struggled with command, walking three in just one-third of an inning. Lillie Wools took the loss, surrendering three runs over 3.2 innings despite recording nine groundouts.
Defensively, Western Illinois turned in a clean effort outside of one error by Luna, while Alivia Beard swiped a base as a pinch runner to spark a rally. German also stood out behind the plate, gunning down a potential base stealer and contributing defensively.
Ultimately, Lindenwood pulled ahead with a three-run fourth inning, highlighted by a home run from Tori Hatton and an RBI triple by Jolie McMinn. The Lions' bullpen held WIU scoreless in the final frame, with Ryleigh Owens earning the save.
Western Illinois looking to snap a brief skid and build momentum as they return to Mary Ellen McKee Stadium on Wednesday, April 16th, to face University of Missouri-Kansas City at 2 p.m.
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