The Iowa Hawkeye baseball team spotted Florida International an early 2-0 lead and lost 2-1, Thursday, to open a three game series in Des Moines. The Hawkeyes lost despite out hitting the Panthers 9-2.

That’s Iowa coach Rick Heller. The Hawkeyes had their chances late. They stranded a runner at third in the bottom of the eighth and left the bases loaded in the bottom of the ninth. It was the first of three games at Principal Park and Heller was asked about the atmosphere in the stadium.[

Iowa’s lone run came on a third inning solo homer by first baseman Davis Cop. Game two of the series is tonight (Friday night).