The Mankato MoonDogs fell victim to a seven-run sixth inning by the Alexandria Blue Anchors, which led to an 8-2 defeat at Knute Nelson Park on Friday night.

The Blue Anchors struck first in the bottom of the fourth to take a 1-0 lead into the fifth, but it was the seven-run sixth that doomed the MoonDogs in Alexandria.

Mankato fought back, starting a late rally on a two-RBI double by Derek Umphres, but the Blue Anchors quickly ended the threat by getting the MoonDogs to ground into a double play to end the top of the eighth with a six-run lead.

Jordan Lee led the Blue Anchors with a bases clearing double while Craig Nennig and Dalton Leuschke each drove in a pair.

Umphres finished the night 3-4 with two RBI while Patrick Massoni chipped in with two hits. Brett Synek, Brinn Bell and Brent Zimmerman had one hit each for the MoonDogs in the loss.

Dillon Williams pitched well, despite suffering the loss. The southpaw wen 4.2 innings and allowed just one run on three hits while striking out six. James McMahon and Matt Wilson also added scoreless innings out of the bullpen.

Jason Zgardowski picked up the win, improving to 2-7 on the year. The right-hander tossed six scoreless innings and allowed just five hits while striking out four.

The MoonDogs and the Blue Anchors meet again Saturday evening at Franklin Rogers Park. First pitch is slated for 6:05 p.m.