GRAPEVINE, Texas - The Crimson Storm fell short in their final contests of the Lonestar Classic. SNU fell to Central Missouri before another tough loss against No. 24 Missouri Southern Saturday afternoon.
Game 1
Both squads struggled to break through early, as neither team managed to score in the first two innings. However, Central Missouri (3-0) struck first in the third inning, capitalizing on a three-run home run from Bailey Brumley to take a 3-0 lead.
SNU (1-3) responded with a solid effort in the fourth inning. Kristen Mullendore got things started with a double to right center, driving in Hannah Wolfe from second base to trim the deficit to 3-1.
The Storm's offense continued to press but couldn't capitalize on any further opportunities. In the seventh, Central Missouri delivered another blow, with Taylor Kvale hitting a two-run homer to left field, pushing their lead to 5-1.
Despite a few bright moments at the plate, including Mullendore's double and strong defense, Southern Nazarene couldn't manage to string together enough hits to mount a comeback.
Game 2
Southern Nazarene ran into a tough No. 24 Missouri Southern (3-0) squad in their final contest of the Lonestar Classic, falling 3-0.
The Lions struck early in the bottom of the first inning, using a two-run home run to left center from Katie Gray to take a quick 2–0 lead.
SNU's pitching staff settled in after the opening frame, working to keep the game within reach. The Storm defense battled through some adversity in the field, but limited further damage until the fourth inning when Missouri Southern added one more run on an RBI double to deep center, extending the margin to 3-0.
Offensively, the Crimson Storm fought to generate momentum against a strong outing in the circle from the Lions. Presley Brott accounted for SNU's lone hit of the game. Olivia Hernandez was tagged with the loss for Southern Nazarene, while Emily Davis earned the win for Missouri Southern.
Next Up
The Crimson Storm will travel to Claremore, Oklahoma to the Rogers State Festival. SNU will take on the host No. 18 Rogers State on Friday, February 7 at noon.