HAYS, Kan. – The Northwest Missouri State baseball team (21-23, 15-16 MIAA) came up short in its series opener against No. 21 Fort Hays State, falling 4-1 Friday night at Larks Park.

The Tigers improved to 31-11 overall and 25-6 in MIAA play behind a complete-game outing from Ty Riley (9-1), who struck out 11 Bearcats and allowed just six hits.

Dylan Hufft and Chester Brooks led Northwest at the plate with two hits each. Brooks drove in the Bearcats' lone run in the eighth inning, singling home Ryan Williams to prevent the shutout.

Fort Hays State took a 1-0 lead in the second with a solo home run and extended the advantage to 4-0 in the seventh following an error. Northwest had only three hits through seven innings before breaking through in the eighth.

Ben Haug (4-5) got the start for the Bearcats, striking out eight over 6 2/3 innings while allowing four runs (three earned) on seven hits. Connor Polli and Caden Blair each saw action out of the Bearcat bullpen. 

UP NEXT
The Bearcats and Tigers will battle in game two set for tomorrow, April 25. First pitch is scheduled for 4 p.m., at Larks Park.