Eastern Kentucky Falls to North Alabama in Competitive Matchup
FLORENCE, Ala. – Eastern Kentucky University (EKU) battled back from an early 3-0 deficit but ultimately succumbed to North Alabama, losing 6-4 on Friday.
The Lions set the tone by seizing a three-run lead in the first inning. However, the Colonels responded steadily, scoring one run in each of the third, fourth, and fifth innings to level the game. Pitcher Ryker Walton played a key role for EKU, retiring seven consecutive batters during the second, third, and fourth innings, showcasing strong pitching despite the early setbacks.
AJ Groeneveld kickstarted the Colonels’ resurgence with a double in the third inning, later scoring on a sacrifice fly from Diego Alana. The fourth inning saw Greg Caban push across another run, narrowing the deficit to 3-2. Alana continued to shine, tying the game in the fifth with a sacrifice bunt that brought home Elijah Underhill.
North Alabama regained the lead in the sixth inning, capitalizing on a hit batter and subsequent errors to score the go-ahead run. The Lions extended their advantage with two more runs in the seventh inning, leaving EKU facing a steep uphill battle.
Silas Shaffer provided a glimmer of hope for the Colonels in the eighth inning with a home run, but it wasn’t enough to turn the tide. Groeneveld ended the game with a solid 2-for-4 performance, while Alana contributed two RBIs.
On the opposing side, RJ Sherwood led North Alabama, going 2-for-3 with a run and two RBIs. Walton finished the game having allowed four runs (three earned) across six innings, striking out a season-high eight batters.
The teams will meet again for the second game of the series at 3 p.m. ET on Saturday.
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