Akron, Ohio – Amy Kyler tossed a two-hit shutout and Jenn Poore’s first-inning sacrifice fly plated the only run as Akron nipped Illinois, 1-0, Friday evening at Firestone Stadium. The Racers (30-6) solidified their hold on second place in the National Pro Fastpitch standings, taking a two-game lead on third-place Texas (28-8). Chicago (33-4) leads the pack. Kyler (8-3) struck out 14 and walked three. The former Cleveland State star had pitched a no-hitter against the Canadian Elite Team in her last start at Firestone Stadium. SIyhia McMichael doubled to right-center field to lead off the Racers’ first. She stole third and scored on Poore’s fly out to left field. McMichael, last season’s NPF Most Valuable Player, leads the league with 48 runs scored and tied the franchise mark set by Rashunda Taylor for the Orlando Wahoos in 1997. Margo Pruis was the hardluck loser for Illinois, limiting Akron’s high-powered offense to two hits. The Cougars stranded eight base runners and could not capitalize on three Akron miscues. The Racers and Cougars meet again Saturday at 1:05 p.m.