DES MOINES, Iowa – One swing of the bat was the difference for the Drake softball team (11-27, 4-12) in Missouri Valley Conference play) in a 3-0 loss to Illinois State (24-17, 14-3) in the series finale at Ron Buel Field on Saturday, April 15.

Drake starting pitcher Mackenzie Hupke (5-7) went the distance again, striking out eight batters while only allowing one walk.
 
Emily Valtman led off the bottom of the second inning with a single into right field and moved into scoring position with a stolen base. However, Valtman was doubled up at second base when Carey Koenig lined out to right.
 
The difference of the game occurred in the top of the fourth when Dayna Kennedy lifted a three-run homer over the left field wall.
 
Hannah Ross (9-7) picked up her second win in the series letting up three hits in 7.0 innings of work with a walk and six strikeouts.
 
The Bulldogs will play host to UNI on Tuesday, April 18 at 5 p.m.