MINOT, N.D. — Bemidji State University Softball struggled to get points on the board against Minot State University in a doubleheader, falling 10-2 in the first game and 9-1 in the second at the MSU Bubble. Bemidji State (6-26, 0-9 NSIC) notched eight hits during the contest but fell short as Minot State (18-15, 3-6 NSIC) pulled away with a decisive seven-run seventh inning.
The action started with Minot State taking an early lead in the first inning when Misner's single to left field brought LaCount home, putting Minot State up 1-0. They extended their advantage in the third inning with two runs, including an RBI single from Smith, making it 3-0.
Bemidji State fought back in the fifth inning;
Aubrey Aukerman singled to right field, bringing in
Josie Kappes, who reached base on a fielding error, narrowing the gap to 3-1. However, Minot State's seventh inning was a powerhouse display, highlighted by a home run from I. Anderson and a two-run shot by VanWickler, contributing to their seven-run surge.
Bemidji State added another run in the bottom of the seventh when
Alayna DeGraef singled up the middle, allowing Kappes to score, but ultimately fell 10-2. On the mound,
Danica Sarff pitched 2 1/3 innings, giving up four hits and three earned runs alongside two walks.
Sydney Klusman took over, pitching 4 1/3 innings and allowing 11 hits and four earned runs, including two home runs, while striking out two.
Kappes made her presence felt on the base paths, scoring twice and swiping a base. DeGraef contributed two hits and an RBI, bolstering the offense. Aukerman recorded a hit and an RBI, along with three assists defensively.
Calleigh Richards added two hits, including a double.
In the second game, Bemidji State (6-27, 0-10 Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference) faced another tough outing, falling 9-1 to Minot State (19-15, 4-6 Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference) in a five-inning showdown.
The Beavers put together seven hits, including a pair of doubles, but couldn't catch up to Minot State's early momentum. Minot State came out swinging, chalking up three runs in the first inning with Kellogg's two-run homer to left center and Hoogensen's RBI double.
Jackie Larsen of Bemidji State singled and made her way to third on
Alayna DeGraef's double, but the team left those scoring chances on base, finishing the inning trailing 3-0.
The second inning saw Minot State extend their lead with Millions crossing home on a fielder's choice. Although
Jenna Burd and
Josie Kappes each singled for Bemidji State, the offensive push fell short, maintaining the score at 4-0. The fifth inning was decisive, as Minot State surged ahead with five more runs, highlighted by Franzwa's two-RBI bunt single. Bemidji State managed to get on the board when DeGraef doubled to left center, bringing Larsen home for their sole run, but the inning wrapped with Minot State firmly ahead, 9-1.
Tibby Hessian took on pitching duties for Bemidji State, throwing 4 innings and allowing 7 earned runs on 6 hits, along with 6 walks and 4 strikeouts.
Danica Sarff stepped in for relief, pitching 1/3 of an inning, conceding 2 runs on 2 hits with 3 walks and 1 strikeout.
Sydney Klusman closed out the game with a solid effort, recording 2 outs without allowing any hits or walks and notching 1 strikeout.
DeGraef was a standout with two hits and an RBI from her doubles. Kappes was perfect at the plate with two hits in her two appearances. Larsen contributed by scoring a run and adding a hit, while
Aubrey Aukerman demonstrated defensive prowess at second base, racking up three assists.
With a record of 6-27, Bemidji State remains in search of their first conference win at 0-10. Meanwhile, Minot State's record moves to 19-15, with a 4-6 mark in conference play.
Next up, Bemidji State will host the University of Mary on Saturday, April 4, at 2 and 4 p.m. in the Minot Bubble.
For more information on the Bemidji State Softball program, tickets or schedules, visit BSUBeavers.com, follow the Beavers on X (@BSUBeaversSB), like them on Facebook (facebook.com/BSUBeavers) and like them on Instagram (@BSUBeaversSB).
Located on the shore of Lake Bemidji, Bemidji State University sponsors 15 varsity athletic programs with NCAA Division I men's and women's hockey membership in the Central Collegiate Hockey Association and Western Collegiate Hockey Association, while its 13 NCAA Division II programs hold membership in the Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference (NSIC).
