Holland Reporter

Grand Valley State University (GVSU) faced a challenging game against Northwood in the NCAA Division II Midwest Regional, resulting in a 15-12 loss. The Lakers, with a record of 42-13, will now compete against Lewis in an elimination match scheduled for Saturday at 11 am.

The game began with Northwood establishing a strong lead, scoring seven runs within the first two innings. GVSU responded by adding one run in the third inning and two more in the fourth, narrowing the gap to 7-3.

In an impressive comeback during the fifth inning, GVSU scored eight runs to take an 11-7 lead. Jovan Gill initiated this rally with a solo home run. Brendan Guciardo followed with a double, while Caleb Estrado walked and Caleb Thelen singled to load the bases. Ryan Stimac's single brought in two runs. Ayden VanEnkevort and Evan Morrison walked, allowing Thelen to score on a wild pitch. Ryan Dykstra then hit a grand slam to right field.

Northwood added another run in the seventh inning, but GVSU countered with one of their own as Morrison tripled and scored on Gill's sacrifice fly.

The eighth inning proved decisive for Northwood as they scored seven runs through three hits, two hit by pitches, one walk, and one error.

Ryan Dykstra ended the game 2-for-4 with a grand slam. Jovan Gill went 1-for-5 with a home run and two RBIs. Ryan Stimac was 3-for-5 with two runs and two RBIs, while Caleb Thelen also contributed by going 3-for-5 with two runs scored. Evan Morrison had three runs scored and two RBIs from his 2-for-5 performance.

On the pitching side, Collin Bradley pitched six innings but allowed eight runs on twelve hits. Both Jovan Gill and Will Goebel took turns pitching during the game.