BELTON, Texas – McMurry University Softball dropped the opening game of its series at the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor Thursday evening, 8-0 in five innings.

After scoring twice in the second inning, the Crusaders (11-11) added three run innings in the third and fourth.

The War Hawks (8-13, 3-7 ASC) loaded the bases in the top of the second with one out, but the inning ended with a flyout and groundout. McMurry had runners on first and third in the third inning, as well, but was unable to score.

Catcher Mikayla Krause had the War Hawks' third on a double in the fourth, but was caught in a rundown later in the inning. McMurry's other two hits were singles by outfielders Kollin Morris and Summer Quiroga.

Hope Schoeneman took the loss in the circle, and was relieved by Cheyenne West, who tossed a scoreless inning.

The War Hawks conclude the series with the Crusaders Friday with a doubleheader beginning at 1 p.m.