For the first time, the Royals tasted defeat, as they were shutout by the Athletics 5-0 at the Coliseum in Oakland.

Although Kansas City starter Dave Morehead pitched a scoreless first inning, the A’s battered him for five runs over the next two innings. Oakland scored three runs in the second after two walks set the table for Dick Green (RBI double) and Dave Duncan (single to drive in two runs).

Morehead got the first out in the third but then walked Reggie Jackson and gave up a single to Sal Bando. Manager Joe Gordon called to the bullpen for Dick Drago, who was greeted by Danny Cater with a two-run double. However, Drago finished the inning without further damage and pitched 4 2/3 scoreless innings.

Offensively, the Royals were stymied by A’s starter Catfish Hunter. The Oakland star, who had just celebrated his 23^rd birthday, tossed a complete-game shutout. He allowed just six hits, all singles, and three walks while picking up six strikeouts. Joe Keough and Mike Fiore did manage to pick up two hits apiece.

Today’s birthdays: Bret Saberhagen (1964), Steve Scarsone (1966), Joe Vitiello (1970), Todd Dunwoody (1975), Andres Blanco (1984)