McPherson, Kan. The Tigers returned home for a weekend contest against the MACU Evangels looking to get back into the win column after suffering a sweep to USAO in Oklahoma last weekend.
In game 1, the Tigers kept things tight through the opening innings before the Evangels broke through in the middle frames, using a string of hits to generate a multi-run inning that created early separation. The Tigers managed to get runners aboard in response, including a key opportunity with traffic on the bases, but were unable to come up with the timely hit to cut into the deficit. The Evangels added insurance later after capitalizing on another scoring chance, while the Tigers settled in defensively to prevent further damage. Despite late base runners, the Tigers couldn’t mount a comeback as the game finished in a 6-1 final.
The Tigers battled through a scoreless start in game 2Â before the Evangels got on the board with consecutive hits that set up an early run. The Tigers answered by creating pressure on the base paths, advancing runners into scoring position and forcing defensive plays, but a key inning ended with runners stranded. The Evangels extended their lead in the later innings with a clutch extra base hit that brought in multiple runs, widening the gap. The Tigers continued to put the ball in play and generate chances, but couldn’t match the timely hitting of the Evangels in an 8-2 final.
In game 3, the Tigers showed improvement offensively, getting on base early and manufacturing a run with productive situational hitting to stay within reach. After the Evangels responded with a run of their own, the Tigers answered again, keeping the game competitive through the middle innings. A pivotal late inning shifted momentum, as the Evangels strung together multiple hits to push across several runs and take control. The Tigers were unable to answer in the final frame and dropped game 3 by a score of 7-3.
The Tigers looked to finish the series strong, but the Evangels came out aggressive at the plate, putting together an early scoring burst to take the lead. The Tigers responded with a well executed offensive sequence that led to a run, showing discipline at the plate and smart base running. The game remained within reach for a stretch before the Evangels added late runs after capitalizing on another key opportunity with runners on base. The Tigers continued to compete in their final at bats but couldn’t close the gap as they would drop the series finale 9-2 allowing the Evangels to earn the series sweep.
The Tigers are now 11-19 (4-16) on the season and will now gear up for a collegiate cup matchup against McPherson College at home tomorrow evening. First pitch is set for 5:00 and the games will be streamed on the SAC Sports Network and Urban Edge Network.
