Otahkians sweep TSU in conference opener

Looking to right its season, Southeast Missouri State University's softball team opened its Ohio Valley Conference schedule with a doubleheader sweep of visiting Tennessee State Saturday.

The Othakians improved to 6-14 and 2-0 in the OVC. The Tigers fell to 5-20 and 2-5.

Southeast opened the doubleheader with a 4-0 win thanks to a pitching gem by junior-college transfer Jessica Hunter. Hunter pitched all seven innings, allowing only three hits and striking out seven.

Southeast managed only six hits in the opener. Marie Coode's home run was Southeast's offensive highlight.

In the second game, Southeast overcame early pitching problems and rallied in the sixth for a 4-3 win. Otahkians starter Rachel Van Fleet recorded only one out before being relieved. Hunter and Kelly Birk pitched the final 6 2/3 innings to secure the win. Birk picked up the win, going five innings and allowing one hit.

Southeast trailed 3-2 going into the sixth inning before Coode started a rally with a triple. Birk doubled in Coode, and catcher Alicia Loucks hit a sacrifice fly to drive in Birk for the game-winning run. Birk finished 3-for-3 with two RBIs, and Coode went 2-for-3 with two runs.

The teams conclude their three-game series at 1 p.m. today at the Southeast Softball Complex.