Northeast softball slips on the road at North Platte

NORTH PLATTE, Neb. – The Northeast Community College softball team was unable to capitalize on a six-run lead in the second game of a doubleheader on Saturday, falling to North Platte Community college, 2-0 and 11-7. The Hawks (1-5) managed to score 12 runs on Sunday, but it wasn't enough as the Knights swept both games, 17-12 and 8-1 in North Platte, Neb.

The Hawks were able to secure only two hits on Saturday in Game One of the doubleheader. Alyssa Turner (Columbus, Neb.) and Madison McKewon (Springfield, Neb.) had the lone hits for Northeast. Kierra Stewart (Dodge, Neb.) was dealt the loss after tossing five and two-thirds innings, allowing two earned runs off 11 hits, while striking out four batters and walking two.

Northeast took a 6-0 advantage in the final game of the day, but the Knights had other ideas as they added six runs in the bottom of the third inning and three more in the bottom of the fourth to keep the Hawks at bay.

Morgan Haner (Sterling, Neb.) and Vada Kruse (Norfolk, Neb.) added two hits, while McKewon had a home run with three RBI. Chantel Julian (Roseville, Calif.) added a double in the loss. Payton Vellek (Yankton, S.D.) took the loss in relief after throwing an inning, allowing two earned runs off four hits.

The Hawks battled on Sunday, putting up seven runs in the first three innings. However, the Knights managed to score nine runs in the bottom of the third and five more in the bottom of the sixth to put the game out of reach for the Hawks.

Julian went 3-for-4 with two runs, a double and an RBI. Turner went 2-for-5 with four RBI, a double and three runs. McKewon and Reagen Reicks (Charter Oak, Iowa) each added two hits. Stewart was dealt the loss in the pitching circle after tossing four innings of relief, giving up two earned runs off five hits, while walking three a striking out one.

The Knights scored all eight runs in the final game in the first three innings and never looked back.

Haner collected three hits, while Turner had two hits, including a double and a stolen base. Stewart once again took the loss, tossing five innings in relief, allowing an earned run off six hits, while walking two batters and striking out one.

The Hawks battle Concordia University JV at 5 p.m. in a doubleheader on Wednesday in Seward, Neb.

For all news related to Northeast Community College athletics, visit northeasthawks.com for complete coverage. Fans can also follow the Hawks on Twitter @NortheastHawks for game-day coverage.