The Fort Hays State softball team split with Northwestern Oklahoma State Tuesday in Alva, losing the opener 2-0 then winning the second game 6-5.

The Tigers put seven runners on in the first game but failed to get a hit. FHSU had runners at first and third with no outs in the seventh but three straight strikeouts ended the game. Paxton Duran took the loss, allowing one earned run on six hits while striking out two and walking two.

Fort Hays State led 6-0 in the second game but had to hold on as the Rangers rally for five in the seventh. Tori Beltz hit two, two-run homers. Kelsey Kimminau picks up the win, striking out six and walking two. The

Tigers (24-23) look to secure spot in the MIAA tournament when they host Nebraska-Kearney Friday.