DUE WEST, S.C. – The Erskine College softball team (3-17, 0-2 CC) dropped a doubleheader against Emmanuel University (11-12, 2-0 CC) at the Erskine Softball Complex on Wednesday.

THE ESSENTIALS 
Conf. Carolinas Standings | Stats | Scores
Div. II Scores | Record Book | CC Digital Network
 
HOW IT HAPPENED
Game 1: Emmanuel 4-0 Erskine 
After surrendering a run-scoring double in the second inning, Erskine starter Kaley Ingle settled in and kept Emmanuel at bay through most of Game 1. However, the Fleet offense faced the tall test of dealing with the reigning conference pitcher of the year in the circle for the Lions. The Fleet struggled their first time through the lineup, but put together some hits in the later innings. After the Lions extended their lead in the top of the sixth, the Fleet had their best chance to kickstart a late rally in the bottom half. Back-to-back singles from Hailey Patterson and Kenzie Eagleman gave the Fleet their first true scoring opportunity, but a double play ended the threat. Erskine got two more singles in the seventh, but was unable to bring the tying run to the plate.

Game 2: Emmanuel 5-2 Erskine 
Following scoreless first innings from each starter, the offenses woke up for the first time on Wednesday in the second. Emmanuel scored three times to take an early lead, but the Fleet wasted no time responding right back. Peyton Rabon capped a string of three consecutive singles to open the frame, scoring Gabby Burroughs to get the Fleet on the board. Maddie Ingram followed with a well-executed sacrifice bunt, and a productive out from Hailey Patterson brought home Jayden Kilinski to get the Fleet within a run. However, the Lions hit a two-out, solo home run in the next half-inning to double their lead. Starting pitcher Abby Ragan settled in, and freshman Kaylee Odum followed with a pair of scoreless frames to keep Erskine within striking distance. But, the Fleet were unable to overcome the early deficit in the back half of the doubleheader.

WHAT'S NEXT?
Erskine continues conference play on its home field this weekend, when the Fleet welcome in Barton College (11-11, 2-0 CC) for a doubleheader on Saturday at noon. The Fleet swept the Bulldogs in Wilson last year, thanks to Hailey Watson's walk-off in the opener, before Erskine outlasted BC, 9-7, in game two.

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