Kangaroos Jump To Early Lead But Can't Hold Off North Dakota State

Sunday, March 30

Omaha, Neb. (Claussen-Westgate Field)

11:00 a.m. CT

Kansas City

North Dakota State

Kangaroos Jump To Early Lead But Can't Hold Off North Dakota State

3/30/2008 2:00:00 PM | Softball

By: UMKC Athletics

Omaha, Neb. -- In the final game of The Summit League series between UMKC and North Dakota State, the Kangaroos jumped out to an early lead but weren't able to hang on for the win, falling 8-3 on the afternoon.

UMKC put three runs on the board in the first, as errors bookending a Monica Canisales walk put the first three Kangaroo batters on base. Carli Slagle grounded out to second to collect the first run of the contest, scoring Ashley Whiteside, with Julie Hartung's single to right sending Canisales and Alicia Baker home for a 3-0 margin.

North Dakota State was able to respond with one run in the bottom of the first, but both squads retired in order in the second.

The Kangaroos threatened in the top of the third. Baker was plunked to lead off the inning, stealing second to move into scoring position. UMKC wasn't able to push the senior any further around the bases, however.

North Dakota State would take advantage in the bottom of the third, taking the lead as Taya Upkes came on in relief. The Bison would add one in the fifth and three in the bottom of the sixth, with the Kangaroos unable to find an answer to the Bison pitching.

UMKC (4-22, 2-9 Summit) has a week off before returning to Cleveland Park. The Kangaroos host league newcomers IPFW in a three-game set next weekend, with the first game of the doubleheader set for a 11 a.m. start on Saturday, April 5.