MANSFIELD, Texas — MSU Denver softball dropped its third game of the season on Saturday afternoon, falling 12-7 to Missouri Western State to move to 1-2 on the young campaign, while the Griffons improved to 3-0. 

The Roadrunners jumped out to an early advantage but couldn't slow Missouri Western late, surrendering nine runs over the final three innings after holding the lead through the early part of the contest.

MSU Denver wasted no time getting on the board, opening the game with a four-run first inning. Janessa Esquibel delivered the big blow, ripping a three-RBI double to give the Roadrunners a 4-0 cushion. 

Cheyenne Prieto continued the offensive momentum in the third, launching her first home run of the season as part of a 3-for-4 day that included two runs scored and two RBIs. 

Brooklyn Enny added energy at the top of the lineup, going 1-for-2 with two runs scored and drawing two walks, while Victoria Pearson remained consistent early in her collegiate career by reaching base three more times in the leadoff spot with a 2-for-3 performance and a walk.

In the circle, Natalie Romero was tagged with her second loss of the season as Missouri Western capitalized in the middle and late innings to flip the game in its favor. Freshman Kianna Butler started the game in the circle and tossed 2.1 innings, allowing three runs and striking out two batters. 

Despite the loss, the Roadrunners' offense continued to show promise, tallying seven runs on the day and producing key hits throughout the lineup.

MSU Denver will look to bounce back quickly on Sunday, wrapping up the weekend with a doubleheader against Lewis and Lubbock Christian at 8 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. MT.