LOUISVILLE, Ky.-- The Bellarmine softball team dropped both ends of an ASUN Conference doubleheader versus Kennesaw State University on Saturday with final scores of 3-0 in game one and 8-1 in game two.
The Knights had a chance to score game one's first run in the first inning. A a two-out single from Hannah Webb followed by a passed ball put her in scoring position, but Bellarmine couldn't capitalize as KSU pitcher Melanie Bennett got an inning-ending strikeout.
Kennesaw State brought the game's first run home in the top of the third after speedy shortstop Faith Alexander legged out an infield single then promptly stole second. A second infield single from left fielder Brea Dickey put runners on the corners and set up the chance for Christen Florence to bring home the run on a sacrifice fly to center.
Defensive struggles plagued Bellarmine in the top of the fourth as three consecutive errors allowed two additional runs to cross the plate despite just one Owls hit in the inning.
Bellarmine starter Natalie Magnus went the distance in the circle for the Knights, giving up just one earned run and striking out three. Bennett was dominant in the circle for Kennesaw State, tossing a complete game and striking out a season-high 14 batters.
Kennesaw State kicked off the scoring in game two in the top of the third behind back-to-back singles and a sacrifice bunt setting the stage for a two-run double off the bat of third baseman Taylor Cates.
The Owls broke it open in the top of the fourth inning, a frame that saw them pound out five runs on four hits and also included another Knights defensive miscue. After a walk and three straight singles, Kennesaw State had runners on the corners with one out and had a chance to put away first baseman Lexi Solorzano, but after a dropped fly ball in foul territory, Solorzano made the error a costly one by blasting a three-run home run.
The Knights plated their lone run of the day in the bottom of the fourth. Grace Werner led off the frame with a single and a stolen base, and first baseman Hattie Hartman came through with an RBI single to left center.
Megan Murphy started the game in the circle for Bellarmine, giving up five earned runs and tacking on four strikeouts. Sophomore Lindsey Kyte got the start for the Owls, tossing a complete game and giving up just one earned run.
Bellarmine (6-23) is still seeking their first ASUN victory on the year as the loss moves them to 0-9 in conference play.
The Knights and the Owls will wrap up their series Sunday with first pitch scheduled for noon from Knights Field. Senior Day activities will be held prior to the game to recognize the team's three seniors: Magnus, Olivia Knies and Mary Jessica Thomson.
