The Northwest Missouri State softball team split its doubleheader with Fort Hays State on Saturday afternoon at Tiger Stadium in Hays, Kan.

The Bearcats scored in the first inning and never looked back in game one, winning 7-1.

Fort Hays State came away with a 5-1 victory in the second outing after plating four runs in the fifth.

The Bearcats move to 16-18 on the year and 9-7 in the MIAA, while the Tigers are now 21-16 and 12-8 in the conference.

In game one, Baylee Scarbrough drove in three runs after reaching base twice, Torri Blythe finished the game 2-for-5 and scored a run, and Rebecca Maher drew walks in her first three at bats, finishing 1-for-2 with a run.

Sarah Baldwin started the game for the Bearcats and finished her 10th complete game this season. The junior gave up just one run on nine hits while striking out seven. Baldwin was one out away from a shutout, but surrendered three straight singles in the seventh to give up the only Tiger run.

In game two, Scarbrough scored the lone run for the Bearcats after reaching on a fielder’s choice.

Kendle Schieber gave up five runs on nine hits over 4.2 innings pitched to take the loss. The junior knocked in a run on a double at the plate.

Maher, Stephanie Mark, Chantel Adams and Jessica Rawie all reached base with singles but were unable to come around and score.

Northwest returns to action next Friday when they travel to Pittsburg, Kan. for a conference doubleheader against the Gorillas. First pitch is scheduled for 3 p.m.

— Northwest Sports Information —