DUBUQUE, Iowa - The Spartans (6-12, 1-5 Iowa Conference) stranded 13 runners and scored their only two runs in the top of the sixth inning in 3-2 defeat. The rally wasn't enough to overcome a 3-run first inning by the Duhawks (11-9, 6-4 Iowa Conference).

UD had its chances after leaving two men on base in the top of the ninth facing a 3-2 deficit. It was the theme of the game after UD stranded at least one runner in seven of their nine innings of offense. Twice the Spartans came up empty handed after leaving the bases loaded in the fourth and fifth innings. 

The Spartan bats couldn't capitalize after finishing the game 3 of 20 with runners on.

Spartan starter and designated hitter Dalton Garst (3-1) settled in and pitched a solid six innings after an unfortunate opening stanza. Garst suffered his first loss of the year despite a quality start where he allowed a total of six hits while striking out three.

Garst, along with first basemen Austin McWhite, paced the Spartans offensively with two hits each.