Redbirds Drop Valley Opener to Bruins

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Despite a come-from-behind effort by Illinois State (9-15) that included the winning run being represented at the plate in the top of the seventh, Belmont (14-9) was able to fend off the rallying Redbirds and take the 4-1 victory in the Missouri Valley Conference opening game on Friday evening.

BIRDS BITS

Offensive Highlights:

Hanna Hicks: 1-for-1, BB, RBI

Addison Masching: 1-for-3, K

Kaili Chval: 1-for-4, K

Pitching Breakdown:

Hannah Ross (2-6): 6.0 IP, 7 H, 4 R, 4 ER, BB, 5 K, HBP

HOW IT HAPPENED

As Illinois State and Belmont squared off for the first time as conference opponents, the Bruins were able to take an early lead over the Redbirds in the bottom of the second. A leadoff…