SIOUX FALLS, S.D. – A valiant postseason run by the Beaver softball team came up a few runs short of victory on Friday afternoon.
Minot State's offense was shut down by Minnesota Duluth senior pitcher Lauren Dixon as the Beavers could not push across a run despite totaling five hits as the Bulldogs collected a 2-0 victory in the NSIC Tournament semifinals.
Junior Reegan Floyd (10-9) started and took the loss in the circle for Minot State (24-19 overall). The right-hander went six innings, giving up two runs, both of them earned, on eight hits, allowing one walk and striking out two.
With the win, Minnesota Duluth (41-14) advances to Saturday's NSIC title game and plays Augustana at noon for an automatic berth to the NCAA Tournament. The loss ends Minot State's season.
COACH'S COMMENTS
"First, I can't thank our seniors (Lexi Barduson, Taryn Bennett, Courtney Chatburn, Gabi Dawyduk, Lauryn DeGuzman, Kilee Fehd, Brooklyn Morrison, and Izzy Penner) enough," Beavers coach Sal Rodriguez said. "They have seen a lot of changes in the program over their time. Each and every one have provided something special to this team; oftentimes being the vocal leaders, example setters, and team players.
"This has been a great season!" Minot State's coach added. "I am so proud of this group of ladies. They fought all season long, embraced their roles, and pushed each other to be the best version of themselves. It was a blessing to lead this group in my first season, I am very proud of our ladies."
HOW IT HAPPENED
Minot State managed one chance with a runner on third in the shutout, going a total of 1-for-3 with runners in scoring position. The Beavers last got a runner on third in the sixth, when junior Hannah Murray made it 60 feet away from scoring with one out.
Minnesota Duluth scored a solo run in each of the third and fourth innings, then rode the arm of Dixon, who struck out four in the complete-game win.
GAME NOTES
» Minot State pitchers faced 26 Minnesota Duluth hitters in the game, allowing eight ground balls and six fly balls while striking out two.
» Murray led the Beavers at the plate, going 2-for-2 with a double.
» Minnesota Duluth was led offensively by senior Elle Potts, who went 1-for-3 with a home run and an RBI.
» Dixon led the Bulldogs pitching staff, throwing seven shutout innings.
This story created through content automation technology from Data Skrive.
