The Moose Jaw Mallards battled back late against the Swift Current 57s, but couldn't finish off the charge in a 7-6 loss on Thursday night at Swarbrick Diamond.

Kyle Duncan led the Mallards with three hits and two RBI in the loss, while pitcher Josh Auger struck out four over three innings of work.

The Mallards trailed 7-1 heading into the sixth inning when the offence woke up for three runs. They added two more in the seventh, but couldn't find the tying run in time.

The game was an exhibition contest for the Mallards, who are preparing for provincials next weekend.

They will have another exhibition game on Tuesday against the Regina White Sox at Swarbrick.