DAVENPORT, Iowa — Olivet Nazarene University (17-14, 7-4) came up just short in a 3–2 loss to St. Ambrose University in a tightly contested road matchup at St. Vincent's.
The Tigers wasted no time getting on the board, striking in the first inning. Stephanie Hause led things off with a single, followed by a walk from Rheanna Slavicek. Gwen Bender delivered the big hit of the inning, driving a double to left field that brought both runners home and gave Olivet a 2–0 lead.
Olivet maintained control through much of the game behind a strong performance in the circle from Victoria Strines. The right-hander kept St. Ambrose in check for most of the contest, allowing just one run through the first six innings while the Tigers held onto their narrow advantage.
Offensively, Bender led the way with two hits, including her RBI double, while RyLyn Adams added a triple. Hause also contributed with a hit, a run scored, and solid defensive play.
Despite the early momentum, Olivet was unable to add to its lead, and the game shifted in the final inning. The Tigers allowed a late rally in the seventh, surrendering two runs that ultimately decided the outcome.
With the loss, Olivet Nazarene moves to 17-14 overall and 7-4 in conference play.
The remaining two games of the series against St. Ambrose were postponed due to weather.