WEATHERFORD, Okla. – In the opening game of a pivotal Great American Conference series, Henderson State falls 9-5 to Southwestern.

The Reddies (25-21, 11-17 GAC) struck early, putting up four runs in the first two innings, including a two-run blast to center by third baseman Hilary Akers, driving in Mackenzie Williams. Akers finished the day 2-for-3 with two runs scored, a walk, and two RBIs to pace the offense.

Justine Burch and Josie Copeland also notched multi-hit performances, as Henderson State collected nine total hits on the day. Burch swiped a base and added a run, while Copeland reached base twice.

However, the early momentum was halted by a six-run fourth inning from the Bulldogs (16-23, 9-18 GAC), who would not look back, outscoring the Reddies 6-1 following the third inning.
Makenna Keeton (7-7) was tagged with the loss after giving up 10 hits and seven runs — only three of which were earned — in 3.1 innings. Presley Applegate came on in relief and threw 2.2 innings, allowing three hits and two runs while striking out two.

As a team the Reddies left eight on base while committing three errors defensively.

Despite the loss, Henderson remains firmly in the hunt for a postseason berth in the GAC Tournament. With two games left in the series and only one weekend remaining in the regular season, the next five games are crucial for the Reddies postseason aspirations.

Game one of Friday's doubleheader is set for 12 p.m. in Weatherford, Oklahoma.