Holland Reporter

Grand Valley State University (GVSU) secured a narrow 2-1 victory against Northwood University in a baseball game held at the Lake Myrtle Sports Complex in Auburndale, Florida. The match took place on Thursday night, with GVSU improving their record to 10-3 while Northwood fell to 5-9.

Following a previous defeat to Shorter with a score of 1-0, GVSU managed to clinch this win through strong pitching. Sophomore Owen Avery delivered an impressive performance, allowing only one run on four hits and striking out nine batters over eight innings. Senior Will Goebel contributed by securing his second save with a scoreless ninth inning.

Northwood initially led the game with a solo home run in the third inning. However, GVSU quickly responded in the same inning when Evan Morrison walked, advanced on a wild pitch and flyout, and scored due to an error during a pickoff attempt.

The decisive moment came in the fourth inning when Zach Warren was hit by a pitch, stole second base, and scored on Ryan Stimac's hit to right field.

GVSU's defense played a crucial role in maintaining their lead. A significant defensive play occurred in the sixth inning when Ayden VanEnkevort made an accurate throw from center field to Caleb Estrada at third base, preventing Northwood from advancing further.

Catcher Brendan Guciardo went 2-for-3 at bat while Stimac drove in the only run for GVSU. Other contributors included Ryan Dykstra, Jonas Gulbrandsen as designated hitter, Warren, and Stimac each recording hits.

The Lakers are set to face Tiffin next at 9:15 am followed by Malone at 12:30 pm on Friday at the Northeast Regional Complex.