ANN ARBOR, Mich. -- The University of Michigan-Dearborn softball team fell to WHAC rival Concordia University (MI) on Thursday afternoon, 8-3, in a game that saw the Cardinals capitalize on timely hits and a strong middle-inning surge.

UM-Dearborn (13-18, 10-11 WHAC) struck first in the opening frame with a sacrifice fly by Brooklynn Jones to score Olivia Scott. Concordia (18-17, 13-8 WHAC) responded with eight unanswered runs, including home runs from Elyse Brittain and Madalyne Wieneke to build a commanding lead.

The Wolverines added runs in the sixth and seventh, with RBI singles from Mia Nightingale and Jones. Kendall Phillip led the offense with two hits, a walk, and two runs scored.

Despite an eight-hit effort, Michigan-Dearborn couldn't overcome the early deficit. The Wolverines return to action this weekend, looking to bounce back in a key conference series.

Game two was halted in the late innings due to darkness. More information to come soon.