KENNESAW, Ga.- Junior Erin Binkowski smashed her fourth home run of the season in Western Michigan's 2-1 loss at Kennesaw State Friday. The outing kicked off four games this weekend in Georgia at a tournament hosted by Kennesaw State.

Western Michigan allowed an unearned run in the bottom of the second and Binkowski's long ball pulled the Broncos even in the top of the fifth. The solo shot out over the fence in center field was Binkowski's 12th career home run, moving her into a tie for fifth place in WMU's record book with Erin Malloch.

Junior catcher Courtney Sutter produced a clutch two-out hit for Kennesaw State in the bottom of the fifth, driving in the go-ahead run. Taylor Denton scored after getting on with a walk and stealing second.

The Broncos loaded the bases in the top of the sixth but failed to capitalize as the Owls were able to turn an inning-ending double play with a ground ball back to the pitcher. WMU was retired in order in its final at bat in the seventh.

Western Michigan had eight hits in the game with Binkowski and sophomore center fielder Aspen Williams each going 2-for-3 from the plate.

Senior pitcher Allyson Kus (1-1) suffered the loss, throwing a complete game and allowing the two runs (one earned) and five hits. She struck out six.

Morgan Sikes threw three shutout innings of relief to earn the win for Kennesaw State. The Owls improved their record to 7-1 on the year.

Western Michigan (1-5) plays two games tomorrow, taking on UT-Martin at 10 a.m. and Alabama A&M at 3 p.m.