Eastern Illinois scored four runs in the fifth inning, but was unable to keep their late lead, dropping game two of the series 8-8. EIU falls to 4-5, while NKU improves to 6-4.
Both teams struggled offensively early on, scoring zero runs the first three innings.
Bryce Riggs got the start, throwing three straight scoreless innings with three strikeouts. The Panthers broke open the 1-1 tie in the 5th inning, scoring four runs.
Kyree Alexander started the top of the 5th with a single through the right side, advancing to second on a
Brett Stanley walk. Moments later with bases loaded,
Chris Worcester hit a three-RBI double down the left field line, scoring Love, Stanley, and Alexander. The Panthers added the fourth run with
Mike O'Conor's double to right center, scoring Worcester. EIU jumped out to a big lead early, but it was not sustained.
NKU narrowed EIU's lead in the 6th inning, driving in three runs to cut the deficit to one. With the momentum shifting,
James Geshel pitched in relief to slow the Norse's offense.
With six outs remaining, the Panthers lost their one-run lead.
Pierce Bauerle, who hit the walk-off home run yesterday, strikes once more in the 8th inning. Bauerle hit an infield single, scoring Altman and Brazer.
The Panthers were unable to return the favor in the 9th, recording one base hit in the final three outs.
On the mound for EIU,
Bryce Riggs threw 90 pitches in 5.1 innings of work. Riggs faced 25 batters, striking out six and allowing three runs. Geshel (1-1) pitched 2.1 innings of relief, allowing five earned runs.
By The Numbers
EIU: 7 runs, 10 hits, 1 error
NKU: 8 runs, 11 hits, 0 errors
Chris Worcester: 2-5 with 3 RBIs, 2B (2)
James Love: 2-4 with an RBI
Kyree Alexander: 2-4 with a 2B
Tyler Castro: 1-3 with an RBI
Mike O'Conor: 1-3 with an RBI, BB, 2B
Up Next: The Panthers will complete the weekend series against NKU on Sunday, March 1st, with first pitch slated for 12:00 PM CT.
