MOREHEAD,Ky. – Western Illinois battled at the plate but came up short in a 10-6 loss to Morehead State on Saturday, April 26th, at Prefontaine Park.
The Leathernecks started strong, putting up two runs in the first inning and adding three more in the fourth, but were unable to keep pace as the Eagles used a four-run fifth to pull away. Western Illinois tallied 10 hits in the contest, led by Kaylee Ketcherside who went 2-for-4 with a double and a run scored. Maria Luna also collected two hits, including a double, and scored once, while Payton Brown chipped in a 2-for-4 effort at the plate.
Freshman Ruby Tarr recorded an RBI, and senior Megan Leonard drove in a run with a sacrifice bunt. On the bases, the Leathernecks stayed aggressive, swiping three stolen bases, including one by Lillie Wools who also went 1-for-3 with a walk.
In the circle, Lillie Wools made the start, pitching two innings and allowing seven earned runs on eight hits. Libby Spaulding and Kathryn McChristy combined for four innings of relief, with Spaulding striking out one batter in three innings of work.
Despite Western Illinois taking advantage of six Morehead State errors, the Eagles capitalized on timely hitting, tallying 13 hits and pushing across 10 runs. Defensively, WIU was led by Maria Luna's eight putouts at first base and Megan Leonard's three catches in left field.
Western Illinois looks to regroup and finish the series against Morehead State tomorrow, April 27th, in their doubleheader at 10 AM and 12:30 PM.Â
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