COLLEGE STATION, Texas — The ACU softball team used a three-run first inning to take the lead but could not hold on, losing to Bryant 9-6 in Saturday's Aggie Classic finale at Davis Diamond.
ACU (0-5) scored three runs in the first inning and another three in the seventh, but was unable to overcome a five-run sixth inning by Bryant (2-2).
Junior transfer
Emerson Meggers reached base with a walk in the first, setting the stage for ACU. A fielding error allowed
Ari Maxwell to reach base, and
Valerie Ornelas capitalized with a single up the middle, driving in both teammates.
Jadyn Dawson added a sacrifice fly to push ACU ahead, leading 3–1 after the first.
In the seventh inning,
Taylor Christensen drew a walk and
Kyana Lipardo doubled, putting two runners in scoring position. Meggers then delivered a critical three-run homer to left center, narrowing the deficit. Despite the late surge, Bryant's earlier five-run sixth inning secured their lead, resulting in a 9–6 victory for Bryant.
The game capped a great opening weekend as a Wildcat for Meggers, who's five hits were all for extra bases -- two doubles, two triples and the home run.
Ella Beeman started for the Wildcats and pitched 4 innings, allowing 6 hits and 4 runs, with 2 of those earned.
Makayla Valle provided relief work, pitching 1 inning and giving up 2 runs on 1 hit with 2 walks and 1 strikeout.
Lindsey Oliver faced challenges in her 2/3 inning, allowing 3 runs on 3 hits and issuing 3 walks, while
Leah Meyer closed the game with 1 1/3 scoreless innings, not allowing a hit or walk and striking out 1.
UP NEXT
ACU has its home opener on Wednesday as the Wildcats welcome South Dakota State to Poly Wells Field for a doubleheader starting at 2 p.m.
Both games are scheduled to be
streamed for free on WAC International.
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