The UIS softball team (19-9, 3-3 GLVC) dropped both games of a Saturday doubleheader to Rockhurst University, falling 5-4 in a back-and-forth opener before being shut out 2-0 in game two. The Prairie Stars showed flashes offensively in the first game but were undone by late runs, while the nightcap saw UIS held in check after Rockhurst struck early.

GAME ONE | L, 5-4
UIS hosted Rockhurst in a tightly contested matchup. Rockhurst went up 2-0 in the second on a 2 RBI double, then the Prairie Stars took the lead with three runs in the bottom of the inning. Hailey Niebrugge was hit by a pitch, and Chloe Scroggins singled, advancing Niebrugge. Rebecca Neupauer walked to load the bases, and Rosie Bartletti delivered a double, clearing the bases for three RBIs.

The middle innings were quiet as each starting pitcher settled in. In the sixth inning, Rockhurst scored two unearned runs to take a 4-3 lead. It became a 5-3 lead in the seventh on a sac fly. 

UIS attempted to rally in its last chance. Niebrugge doubled and was replaced by pinch runner Jillian Lane, who scored on a fielder's choice by Bartletti to trail 5-4. However, the game ended on a strikeout with two runners on.

Calista Stahlhut pitched all seven innings, allowing eight hits and two earned runs while striking out seven. She took the loss, moving to 8-4 on the season.

Bartletti led the offense with four RBIs, including her bases-clearing double. Scroggins added two hits and a run scored, while Niebrugge doubled and scored. Neupauer reached base three times via walks and added a stolen base.

GAME TWO | L, 2-0
Rockhurst wasted no time taking control, scoring two runs in the first inning. 

UIS threatened in the second inning when Emme Steward reached on an error and Sidney Sawyer followed with a single, but the Prairie Stars were unable to capitalize. Another opportunity came in the fifth when pinch-hitter Koral Keehner singled and advanced to second, though UIS again came up empty.

The Prairie Stars managed just three hits in the game and were unable to break through, falling 2-0.

Bartletti delivered a strong performance in the circle, tossing a complete game with 10 strikeouts while allowing just three hits and one earned run. She issued only one walk and recorded two assists.

Keehner, Sawyer, and Stahlhut each recorded a hit for UIS.

Up Next
UIS remains home on Sunday, hosting Southwest Baptist for a doubleheader beginning at noon.