Runner’s no-hitter lifts UCA past Northern Iowa

Central Arkansas opened its home season with a complete effort Wednesday, beating Northern Iowa 12-0 at Natalie Shock Stadium.

UCA improved to 6-4 with the victory. The Bears used strong pitching and steady offense to take control early and never gave it back.

Senior pitcher Bailie Runner led the way in the circle. She threw the first no-hitter of her career, holding Northern Iowa without a hit over five innings.

Runner struck out three batters and stayed in command from the start. The defense backed her up with clean plays behind her.

While the pitching kept the Panthers quiet, the Bears’ lineup built a lead in the first inning.

Addie Graham reached base and moved into scoring position after a single by Trinity Brandon. Brandon then stole second to put pressure on the defense.

Kaitlyn Graham stepped up next and hit a home run to center field. That swing gave UCA an early lead and energized the home crowd.

Big innings build comfortable margin

The offense didn’t slow down after the first inning. Gracie St. Hilaire doubled down the right field line and later scored to extend the lead.

In the second inning, UCA continued to push runs across the plate. The Bears took advantage of a defensive miscue to add another run.

With the bases loaded, LJ Smith drew a walk to bring in one more. Lilly Hood followed with a triple to center field that cleared the bases and stretched the margin to 9-0.

The Bears added more in the fourth inning. Smith singled to start the frame, and St. Hilaire reached base on a bunt.

Grace Molitor then delivered a three-run home run to left field. That blast pushed UCA’s total to 12 runs.

Northern Iowa was unable to answer. Runner finished the fifth inning without allowing a hit, sealing the run-rule victory for the Bears.

The win marked a strong start to the home schedule. UCA totaled 11 hits and played steady defense throughout the afternoon.

The Bears now turn their attention to the upcoming Michelle Short and Adam Brown Memorial Tournament at Natalie Shock Stadium. UCA will face Southeastern Louisiana, Saint Louis and Evansville in the weekend event.