The Bearkats were able to rally from an early offensive barrage from Lamar Thursday night but couldn't duplicate that effort Friday as they lost 13-3 in eight innings. The loss sets up a crucial rubber game Saturday at 1 p.m.

Just like Thursday the Cardinals scored eight runs over the first two frames to jump out to a big lead but Sam Houston (26-13, 10-7 SLC) wasn't able to get on the board until the seventh. The Kats didn't have a hit through the first five innings and managed just five in the game.

The SHSU bullpen wasn't as effective either Friday. The Kats shut out LU from the third to the ninth in Thursday's win. Logan Boyd gave up four runs in 1 1/3 innings and Dirk Masters gave up the final run in 1 1/3 innings. Starter Tyler Eppler pitched five innings, allowing eight runs on 11 hits.

The Kats got a little hope in the top of the seventh inning. Second baseman Shea Pierce singled to load the bases with one out. Shortstop Corey Toups drove in Pierce with a sacrifice fly and right fielder Hayden Simerly scored on an errant throw by the Cardinals right fielder. Center fielder Colt Atwood singled to score left fielder Luke Plucheck from third.

Lamar immediately answered with four runs in the bottom of the seventh to put the game out of reach.

With a log jam at the top of the Southland standings Saturday's contest is extremely important for the Kats who hope to win a third straight league title. There is a three-way tie for first in the league (teams with 11 wins) and a three-way tie for second, including the Kats.