The softball team got off to a rough start and never recovered Thursday in its rematch with Indiana State, resulting in a 7-0 loss.
The Sycamores scored three runs in the top half of the first against freshman starting pitcher Nicki Hellam, who made her return to the mound from injury. Hellam was pulled after one inning of work in favor of senior hurler Cortney Winger.
Indiana State pounded Winger, getting four runs in the second, but the senior went unscathed the rest of the way, lacking the run support needed for a comeback.
"They (ISU) came out and hit the ball well early," head coach Terri Laux said. "Our pitchers were missing. They were trying to break up a 15-game losing streak, so obviously they were feeling it."
Senior infielder Kate Gilner led ISU with three hits and four RBIs.
Second-base player Janice Campbell went 2-3 for the Cardinals in the losing effort.
Ball State also committed two errors, which turned into two unearned runs for the Sycamores.
The Cardinals (9-14-1, 5-4-1 conference) must now gear up for a three-game weekend homestand with Bowling Green. A midday doubleheader will begin at 1 p.m. Saturday. The Sunday match is set for the same start time.
Bowling Green (15-7-1, 6-5) enters the series riding a six-game win streak, having improved its Mid-American Conference standing considerably in the past few weeks.
The Falcons boast a mix of hot bats and strong arms that has proved effective this season. BG completed a two-game sweep of Miami Wednesday, having held the RedHawks to just two combined runs scored.
"I hope (the loss) doesn't affect them (the team)," Laux said. "We talked about it point blank. I told them that if we want to make the MAC tournament, we have to play like there is no tomorrow."
Laux said Bowling Green has something in common with Ball State in that the team needs wins. The game will be vital for both teams, she said.
"We had better come ready to play, or else BG could hand it to us," the coach added.
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