Softball Splits with Faulkner in 2024 Opener

Gainesville, Georgia- The Brenau softball team split the season-opening doubleheader with Faulkner (Ala.) University on Wednesday at Ernest Ledford Grindle Park.

In the opening game, the visiting Eagles took an early 3-2 lead after three innings, however, the Golden Tigers rallied in the bottom of the fifth as Cameron Harkey laced a single into center field to drive in two runs and give the home team a 4-3 advantage.

The lead was short-lived as Faulkner (1-1 overall) tied the game in the top of the sixth inning and drove in two more in the top of the seventh inning to escape with a 7-4 win.

Senior Hannah Patridge led the Golden Tigers with a 3-4 performance at the plate, while freshman Payton Hawkins also added 3 hits and an RBI.

Maliah Lee pitched all seven innings, allowing six earned runs while striking out four to take the loss.

In the second game, Brenau slugged its way to an early lead and withstood a late Faulkner rally to win 7-6.

Senior Abigail Brown launched her first homer of the season, while Patridge and freshman Dayton Power each drove in two runs. Power and fellow freshman Ava Moon added stolen bases in the win.

Senior Sara Shaw pitched a complete game allowing five earned runs with three strikeouts to earn her first victory of the season.

Brenau (1-1 overall, 0-0 AAC) next hosts Midway (Ky.) University (0-0 overall) in a non-conference matchup on Saturday at 1 pm and 3 pm Eastern.