BROOKINGS, S.D. (Interstat) — South Dakota State scored on a wild pitch in the bottom of the eighth inning to complete a comeback and defeat Northwestern 5-4 on Friday evening.

The Wildcats built a 4-0 lead in the first inning, highlighted by a two-run double from Kucherak and a sacrifice fly. Ryan Weaver provided a strong start for Northwestern, striking out nine over six innings, but did not factor in the decision.

The Jackrabbits chipped away, tying the game in the seventh on RBI doubles from Franke and Grawe. In the eighth, Carter Taylor scored the decisive run on a wild pitch. Drew McDowell earned the win with three scoreless innings of relief.

Northwestern fell to 5-6. South Dakota State improved to 5-8.