CHICKASHA – The Drovers started a three-game series against conference rival and NAIA No. 7 Oklahoma City with a tough loss.

The Drovers gave up a run on the first three batters of the game. Determined to fight the Stars tough on Thursday, USAO countered with a first-inning run of its own when Conner Bridgman scored off an RBI by Brandon Jewett. Bridgman went 3-for-3 with two runs in the game.

After giving up another two runs, the Drovers had a strong third inning. The bases were loaded when Cody Bridgman was hit by a pitch, which sent Robert Summers home.

Senior Garan Qualls then singled to left field, allowing Jewett and Conner Bridgman to score another two for the Drovers. USAO took the lead 4-3.

Unfortunately for USAO, the Drovers were unable to score again. The strong-hitting Stars scored another four runs before the ninth inning was over and won the game 8-4.

The Drovers are 15-8 overall and 5-5 in the Sooner Athletic Conference.

They finish the series with a doubleheader starting at 1 p.m. Saturday in Oklahoma City. The Drovers play their next home game at 3 p.m. Thursday against Oklahoma Christian.
 

Box score

Published: March 17, 2011