The Northwest Missouri State softball team swept Northeastern State on Sunday afternoon in Tahlequah, Okla.

The Bearcats jumped out to an early lead and used a five-run sixth to seal the 9-3 victory in game one.  Then Northwest scored two runs in the sixth and seventh inning to take game two, 7-6.

The Bearcats improved to 4-6 and 2-2 in the MIAA, while the RiverHawks are now 8-12 and 0-4 in the conference.

In game one, Sarah Baldwin got the start for the Bearcats and pitched 4 2/3 solid innings, giving up two runs on four hits. The junior struck out four and walked three batters to take the win.

Chantel Adams hit her first home run of the year in the sixth, finishing 3-for-3 with five RBI, while Stephanie Mark continued her strong weekend, going 3-for-4 with two RBI and one run scored.

In game two, Freshman Jessica Rawie was a triple short of the cycle, finishing 3-for-3 with three RBI and one run.  Rebecca Maher reached base twice, scoring two runs and crushing the game-winning home run in the seventh, and Senior Stephanie Mark added two RBI and two runs, hitting her fourth home run of the weekend in the first inning.

Abbie Vitosh started in the circle for the Bearcats, throwing 3 1/3 innings and giving up just one earned run.  Kendle Schieber earned the win after throwing three innings and striking out four, while Sarah Baldwin recorded the final two outs to earn her first save at Northwest.

The Bearcats will return to Maryville for their home opener on Wednesday against Upper Iowa. First pitch is scheduled for 1 p.m.

— Northwest Sports Information —