Late Game Two Rally Falls Short as GU Drops Tight Conference Twin Bill

PERU, Neb. — The Graceland softball team (8-37, 3-20 HAAC) closed strong but came up short in a 3-2 loss to Peru State (9-27, 4-21 HAAC) in Game 2 of Tuesday's conference doubleheader after falling 13-6 in the opener at the Centennial Complex.

Graceland generated its most competitive stretch in the nightcap, scoring two runs in the seventh inning to pressure Peru State late. Gracie Dickson delivered an RBI single, followed by Sydney Bears driving in a run with a base hit up the middle, cutting the deficit to one. The Yellowjackets brought the tying run into scoring position, but the rally ended on a strikeout as Peru State secured the sweep.

In the circle, Kaylee Henry limited Peru State to one earned run over 5.2 innings, scattering nine hits and not issuing a walk. Defensively, Graceland committed two errors, contributing to unearned runs that proved decisive in the one-run margin.

The opener saw Graceland record eight hits, including a two-RBI effort from Brea Headly and an RBI double by Brooklynn Glasgow. A three-run fifth inning trimmed the deficit to one, but five defensive errors and Peru State's timely extra-base hitting led to a 13-6 final.

"Game 2 is the standard we need to build on," interim head coach Brady McKillip said. "We executed better in the circle and gave ourselves a chance late. Now it's about sustaining that level for seven innings."

Graceland returns to action Friday, April 24, hosting Park University at North Park in Lamoni, Iowa. First pitch is scheduled for 3 p.m. CDT, with Game 2 to follow at 5 p.m. CDT as part of Senior Day.

For more information on Graceland softball and all Graceland athletics, visit GUjackets.com.