NAPERVILLE, Ill. – Carroll University (5-8, 0-1 CCIW) opened up conference play on a rough note, falling 11-1 to four time defending champion North Central College (10-3 , 1-0 CCIW).
 
The Pioneers had trouble controlling the North Central running game from the outset.  The Cardinals managed to swipe seven bags to go along with their thirteen hits on the day. 
 
Carroll managed to stay in the game early, staying out of the big inning and managed to cut the lead to 6-1 in the top of the sixth inning.
 
However, the lid came off in the bottom of the seventh as an error to start the inning followed by three walks and a hit batter led to five runs to end the game.
 
Carroll will look to bounce back on Thursday as they host long time Midwest Conference rival, Ripon College, in the home opener at 3pm.