AUSTIN, Texas — Concordia Texas battled back from an early deficit but ultimately fell to North Central (Ill.) 10–8 in a non-conference matchup Monday evening at Gardner-Boggs Field.

Kolten McDaniel led the Tornados offensively, going 3-5 with two runs scored 3-5 with two runs scored, while Clark added a double and two RBIs. Jett Warner, Austin Pryor, and Gavin Caldwell each drove in runs during Concordia's seven-run third inning.

The Tornados struck first in the bottom of the first inning when Kalen Clark doubled to right center to score McDaniel, giving CTX a 1–0 lead.

North Central responded with a six-run third inning to take control, but Concordia answered immediately in the bottom half with a seven-run rally.

The Tornados capitalized on defensive miscues and timely hitting, with RBIs from Warner, Pryor, and a sacrifice bunt by Josh Atomanczyk helping CTX surge ahead 8–6.

The Cardinals tied the game in the fourth inning on back-to-back extra-base hits before taking the lead for good in the sixth when a passed ball allowed the Cardinals to score and make it 9–8. North Central added an insurance run in the seventh and held Concordia scoreless the rest of the way.

Concordia Texas will look to bounce back in a series where they will host McMurry starting this Friday, March 13th. First pitch is scheduled for 6pm.

To keep up to date with everything surrounding the CTX baseball program, follow us on social media (@ctxathletics) and visit athletics.concordia.edu.