DeKALB — The NIU Huskies baseball team failed to capitalize on their hitting success as they fell to the Miami University RedHawks with a final score of 4-2 Friday afternoon.

NIU came into the ballgame with a record of 4-18, and as losers of three straight games. Miami also came in with some struggles of their own, being winners of just two of their last eight games. Despite the recent struggles for both ball clubs, the RedHawks hung on while giving up more hits, total bats and less strikeouts than the Huskies.

NIU left 16 runners on base in the game, including loaded bases in the bottom of the ninth with their final chance to tie or take the lead to add to their win column this season.

After a walk and two singles early in the ninth, senior Paxton Kennedy pinch hit for junior Paddy McKermitt with the bases loaded. Kennedy made contact but popped-flied-out on the first pitch. Sophomore Andre Demetral followed with a fly-out of his own on a full count, ending the afternoon bout.

Sophomore Aaron Harper finished the ballgame with four hits and an RBI. Seniors Matt Barnes and Mason Kelley contributed with two hits each.

Sunday, game one:  NIU 3 , Miami 2

NIU led with the Redhawks scoreless 2-0 in the third inning.

Miami University tied the game in the seventh inning 2-2 after a left field hit from first baseman Stephen Krause. The Huskies won 3-2.

Sunday, game two: Miami 7 , NIU 5

Miami University took a huge lead on the Huskies 6-1 in the fourth inning.

The Huskies tried to make a comeback after the fourth inning and scored four more points but lost. The Redhawks won 7-5.