VERMILLION, S.D. — South Dakota battled in a tight pitcher's duel Friday afternoon, but ultimately fell 4-0 to South Dakota State in the Summit League opener at Nygaard Field.

Madison Evans delivered a strong outing in the circle, going the distance with a complete game while striking out six and allowing just four runs on eight hits. The right-hander kept the Jackrabbits off balance early, retiring the side in order in both the first and third innings and facing the minimum through three frames as the game remained scoreless.

Evans continued to compete deep into the game, working out of trouble in the fifth after surrendering a one-out double and limiting further damage. She also benefited from solid defense behind her, including a key double play in the second inning that erased an early SDSU threat, as well as some great outfield efforts. 

After holding SDSU to just one run through six innings, Evans entered the seventh still keeping USD within striking distance. The Jackrabbits were able to string together a late rally with four hits in the inning to extend their lead, but Evans responded by getting the final outs and finishing her complete-game effort.

Offensively, the Coyotes were limited to four hits on the day, with Abi Brown, Ella McGee, Sara Iburg, and Kiya Johnson each recording a hit. USD threatened in the fifth with two runners on but were unable to capitalize as SDSU escaped the inning.

Despite the result, Evans' performance in the circle highlighted a competitive start to conference play, keeping the Coyotes in the game into the final inning against a strong Jackrabbit lineup. 
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