Clarksville, Ark.-The Lady Eagles suffered a 7-0 setback against Hardin-Simmons University and then couldn't hold on to a late lead in a 7-5 loss against Howard Payne University in the American Southwest Conference First Pitch Tournament March 6.
Sarah Shurbet tossed a three-hit complete game for Hardin-Simmons (6-1), and the Lady Eagles (1-7) defense committed four errors in a game where Ozarks had chances to score. Hardin-Simmons took an early 2-0 lead after one and then extended their advantage to 4-0 after four. Ozarks got a runner in scoring position in the second, third and fourth innings, but were unable to push them across.
Kelsey Mefford (0-2) started and went three and two-third to receive the loss.
Howard Payne (3-6) used a four-run seventh inning rally to overcome a 5-3 deficit in Ozarks final game of the ASC First Pitch Tournament.
The Lady Eagles gave up three runs in the first inning, but answered with a pair of their own in the bottom of the third. Ali Mathis and Mefford had back-to-back doubles to ignite the offense. Sarah Otteman followed with a two-run single to put Ozarks within one run. The Lady Eagles’ offense did more damage in the bottom of the fourth. Mefford doubled in Groff, who led off with a walk. Otteman again singled in a pair of runs to give Ozarks a 5-3 lead. But Howard Payne answered with five hits in the seventh to complete a come-from-behind victory.
Mefford finished 3-for-3. Otteman had two hits and drove in four.
Stephany Henson (1-2) received the loss after relieving starter Kaci Foster.
Topics: Athletics