By Emma Hicken, Leatherneck Athletic Communications

MACOMB, Ill.- Western Illinois battled throughout a high-scoring contest but ultimately fell to Southeast Missouri State, 9-19, on Sunday afternoon in Macomb.

The Leathernecks came out with strong energy at the plate, jumping ahead early and putting pressure on SEMO's pitching staff through the first few innings behind runs from Joe Connolly and Liam Bushey. Connolly led offensively, recording three runs, with Wandel Campana and Liam Bushey each adding two runs. WIU continued to respond even after Southeast Missouri State surged in the middle frames, stringing together timely hits and finding ways to keep the game within reach.

WIU continued their response throughout the middle frames, with Tyler Large and Krayton Morse each adding a run.
 

Despite the offensive effort, the Redhawks capitalized on key moments and used several big innings to regain control, slowly pulling away late. Western Illinois showed resilience, answering multiple runs with production of their own and staying aggressive offensively, but couldn't overcome SEMO's consistency down the stretch. 
 

The Leathernecks will look to build on their offensive momentum as they continue conference play next week, hosting the Little Rock Trojans. 

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