In the first game of today's conference softball doubleheader, Mount Marty University Lancers faced off against the Northwestern College Red Raiders at the ASB Dome in Sioux Center, Iowa, ultimately falling with a final score of 8-0. Despite Mount Marty's record of 9-14, they came into the game with determination, looking to upset the dominant 23-2 Northwestern squad. However, it was the Red Raiders who asserted their dominance early on.

Mount Marty's McKenzie Gray took the mound for the Lancers, issuing four walks and three strikeouts. Mount Marty's Madison Kovar also took the mound today, providing relief in the last stretch of game one. The game showcased a strong pitching performance from Northwestern's K. Etheringt, who secured her 10th win of the season. On the offensive side of the ball, Janeah Castro and Reese Peterson stood out for the Lancers, providing one hit a piece. 

Game Two: 

The second game of the conference doubleheader against the nationally ranked Northwestern College Red Raiders was a closer one, but the Lancers fell short with a final score of 4-2 that extended into extra innings. Both teams entered the contest with strong intentions, with Mount Marty sporting a record of 9-15 and Northwestern boasting an impressive 24-2 record.

Key players for Mount Marty included Abby Johnson, who delivered a crucial double and drove in two runs for her team, and Olivia Valdez, who contributed a hit and one walk. Autumn Porter and Raegan Harper also tallied a hit a piece. Ella Ray and Sami Noble are the two Lancers who crossed home plate in tonight's match up, tying up the score at 2-2 in the top of the 5th inning. Despite their efforts, Mount Marty fell just short of overcoming the offense of the Northwestern squad. On the defensive side, Mount Marty's Makayla Graunke put up a valiant effort on the mound, pitching 7.1 innings while allowing four runs and striking out three batters, ultimately taking the loss with a record of 3-4.

For Northwestern, standout performances came from A. Pate, who launched a home run and drove in two runs, and J. Hajek, who collected two hits and scored a run for her team.

The Lancers will be back in action on Wednesday evening, April 3rd in Yankton as they take on the Briar Cliff University Chargers at 5 & 7 PM.