Mustangs Fall to Central Methodist to Open Heart Tournament Play

OZARK, Mo. — Mount Mercy (33-13, 20-4) narrowly fell to Central Methodist (28-20, 16-12) with a final score of 6-5 on Thursday at Ozark Mountain. The Mustangs' four-run burst in the fifth inning was not enough to overcome Central Methodist's early lead.

In the second inning, the Mustangs' Drew Terpins tripled to left center and later scored on a wild pitch, taking an early 1-0 lead.

Central Methodist responded in the third inning. Joshua Smith scored on a single by Jordan Vazquez, who advanced to second on a right field error. Vazquez then scored on a single by Ryan Malzahn, giving Central Methodist a 2-1 advantage.

The fourth inning saw Central Methodist extend its lead. Smith scored on a double by Dawson Foster, with Cruz Valencia, as a pinch runner, later scoring on a single by Vazquez, making it 4-1.

The Mustangs narrowed the gap in the bottom of the fourth with Sam Wiese scoring on a single by DJ Harris, moving the score to 4-2.

In the fifth, Central Methodist's Zeb Wede hit a two-run homer to left field, extending the lead to 6-2. The Mustangs responded with three runs in the bottom half. Lane Spieker doubled in Christian Graves, Nick Meyer followed with an RBI double, and Tommy Taylor, as a pinch runner, scored on a center field error, closing the margin to 6-5.

Neither team scored in the remaining innings, and Central Methodist secured the 6-5 victory over the Mustangs.

Terpins stood out by collecting three hits, including a triple, in the game. Spieker contributed with a double, driving in one run and scoring once himself. Meyer added to the offense with a double and an RBI. On the mound, Alex Neal pitched 4 innings, allowing just two hits and striking out one batter.

Vazquez and Wede stood out for Central Methodist with their impressive performances. Vazquez contributed significantly with 2 RBIs, while Wede added to the team's success with 2 RBIs and a home run. Smith also made a strong impact, scoring 2 runs and securing 3 hits, including a double. On the mound, Westin Walls pitched 6 innings, striking out 7 batters despite allowing 5 runs. Nicholas Neighbours closed out the game with a 3-inning performance, recording 3 strikeouts and earning a save.

The Mustangs will next face off with Grand View in an elimination game, with first pitch scheduled for 1:30 p.m.