TUCSON, Ariz. — Midwestern State ended its run at the National Fast-pitch Coaches' Association Leadoff Classic falling to No. 3-ranked Dixie State (Utah) 10-3 in the Gold Bracket semifinals Satuday night at the Lincoln Park Complex.

The Mustangs (2-2) earned a spot in the top bracket hitting four home runs en route to a 10-0 win over Molloy (N.Y.) in six innings during the final round of pool play earlier in the afternoon.

Once again, it was senior shortstop Katy Vandewater leading the charge going 2-for-5 while driving in five runs on the strength of a 3-run blast in the seventh inning, but that was the final blow for the Mustangs.

The Mustangs plated three runs in the first inning before junior second baseman Shelby Carter belted a solo shot in the third inning while Erin Knox and Haley Howerton added solo shots in the fourth inning.

Sophomore pitcher Tayler Jerrick weaved a shutout in her first outing on the season limiting the Lions to a five hits while striking out two.

Midwestern struggled defensively while falling to Dixie State for the second consecutive day. The Mustangs committed four errors allowing the Red Storm to plate a run in the first, two in the third, five in the fourth and two more in the sixth.

Howerton led the way at the plate going 3-for-4 with a run scored.

Midwestern State competes in West Texas A&M's Woodward Invitational next weekend in Canyon. The Mustangs open with games against Metropolitan State (Colo.) and Chadron State (Neb.) on Friday.