WEATHERFORD – SWOSU Softball scored all five of its runs over the final three innings but could not overcome an early deficit, falling 8-5 to No. 20-ranked Oklahoma Baptist in Friday's series opener.
 
The Bison struck early, using a two-out home run and an RBI single in the first inning to take control. They added three runs in the fourth and two more in the fifth while the Bulldogs worked to find offensive rhythm.
 
Through five innings, SWOSU managed just two hits and trailed 7-0 entering the bottom of the fifth. The Dawgs broke through with a sacrifice fly to get on the board, then mounted a stronger push in the sixth. A four-hit inning produced three runs, trimming the deficit to 8-4.
 
Taylor McKee delivered the biggest swing of the inning with a pinch-hit, two-RBI double. Emily Wedel followed with a double of her own to score McKee. However, SWOSU stranded two runners and couldn't pull any closer.
 
In the seventh, a Taylor McMahon single brought home another run and put the tying run at the plate, but the Bulldogs again left two on base as Oklahoma Baptist secured the final out.
 
McMahon led the offense with a 3-for-4 performance, scoring twice and driving in a run. Wedel added two hits as SWOSU finished with nine total. Oklahoma Baptist collected 14.
 
Jaycee McKee (L) pitched into the fourth inning before Blaire Gentry took over in relief. Gentry threw the remainder of the game, striking out four and allowing three runs.
 
SWOSU will look to bounce back in Saturday's doubleheader, beginning at noon in Weatherford.