Blue Raiders miss opportunities in 2-1 loss at Lipscomb

MURFREESBORO, Tenn. - Middle Tennessee performed well on the mound and defensively but could not score enough runs falling 2-1 to Lipscomb at Ken Dugan Field on Tuesday afternoon.

The Blue Raiders (5-17) left 10 runners on base including five in scoring position. Sophomore Ryan Ford and junior Matt Drake guided the offense with two hits apiece. Freshman Ryan Stephens scored the only Blue Raider run after solid base running.

Middle Tennessee outhit Lipscomb 5 to 3 but the Bison left just one runner on base and had quality innings from its bullpen.

R-freshman Paul Mittura took the loss on the mound after allowing two runs on two hits in four innings of work. Junior Matthew Drake and r-sophomore Joey McClung worked a combined three innings in relief allowing one hit and no runs.

The Blue Raider defense was solid committing no errors and turned four double plays.

Lipscomb got on the board early as a bases loaded single up the middle by Chism scored two runs making it 2-0.

The Blue Raiders made it a one run game in the fifth thanks to solid base running by Stephens. Stephens stole second then advanced to third on an overthrow by the catcher. Then the centerfielder overthrew third base allowing Stephens to score when the ball went in the dugout.

Middle Tennessee will play at Austin Peay in Clarksville, Tenn., on Wednesday, March 30 at 6 p.m. Dick Palmer will have the call on the Blue Raider Network.

MBA Youth Day: Sunday, April 3 is MBA Little League Day at Reese Smith Jr. Field. All children who come to the field with their uniform jersey will receive free admission. Family members of those children may purchase a $4 ticket at the stadium ticket booth. For more information contact the Middle Tennessee Marketing office at (615) 494-7827 or (615) 898-5322.

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