A late 14-run surge in the fifth and sixth innings lifted the Minnesota State University-Mankato Mavericks to a victory over the Southwest Minnesota State University Mustangs in game one of a four-game series

The Mavericks recorded their first run in the third inning after a fly ball to left field. SMSU’s Nick Tillo appeared to catch the ball, but failed to follow through, giving the Mavericks a solo home run. However, the Mustangs fought back in the fifth inning. Jared Carlson and Tanner Neale each picked up singles, followed by a sac bunt from Ryan Engles to put runners on second and third. SMSU’s Jon Ellis blasted a two-run single to earn a 2-1 lead for the Mustangs.

Mustang starting pitcher Brandon Alfson sailed through the first four innings, allowing a mere two runners to get on base. The Mustangs seemed to run out of steam in the bottom of the fifth, allowing the Mavericks to record nine runs on just five hits. The rally helped the Mavericks build up a 10-2 lead over the Mustangs.

SMSU senior Kyle Young helped cut the deficit to 10-3 with a home run (his fourth of the season) in the sixth.

Alfson took the loss for the Mustangs. He gave up six runs, four of which were earned, on two hits with three walks and two strikeouts.