WINFIELD, Kan. — Southwestern dropped the opener before rallying in the nightcap to earn a split with Graceland on Friday, securing a program milestone in the process.

With the Game 2 victory, the Moundbuilders defeated Graceland more than once in a single season for the first time in program history.

Game 1: Graceland 5, Southwestern 1

Graceland used a big fourth inning to pull away for a 5-1 win in the first game of the doubleheader.

Southwestern struck first in the third inning when senior shortstop Taylor Mesna scored on an RBI double by sophomore catcher Aubrey Allison. Allison finished 2-for-3 at the plate and accounted for two of the Builders' three hits.

The Yellowjackets responded in the fourth. With two outs and the bases loaded, G. Beckman delivered a three-run double to give Graceland a 3-1 lead. The visitors added two more runs in the fifth — one scoring on a Southwestern error and another on a sacrifice fly — to extend the margin.

Junior pitcher Faith Campbell went the distance in the circle, striking out nine over seven innings while allowing five runs, four earned.

Game 2: Southwestern 5, Graceland 4

Southwestern answered in the nightcap, holding off Graceland for a 5-4 victory to earn the split and make program history.

The Builders built early momentum at the plate and capitalized on scoring opportunities to establish the lead. Southwestern's offense produced timely hits throughout, while the pitching staff worked through pressure situations late to secure the win.

The Yellowjackets threatened in the final innings, trimming the deficit to one, but Southwestern closed the door to seal the victory.

The win marked the first time in program history the Moundbuilders have defeated Graceland more than once in the same season.

Southwestern continues its early-season slate looking to build on the milestone performance.