OTAHKIANS SWEEP TWINBILL FROM SLU

ST. LOUIS -- Southeast Missouri State University's softball team, which had suffered two losses in its last three decisions, bounced back Wednesday by winning a doubleheader from host St. Louis University.

The Otahkians prevailed 5-2 and 12-1 to improve their record to 13-5.

"It was a good day for us," said Southeast coach Lana Richmond. "It was a really good day for our hitters. We were more patient."

Missy Thornton was the winning pitcher in the opener. She worked five innings, allowing three hits and no earned runs. Debbie Schmelz hurled the final two innings.

Southeast had eight hits, led by Ricki DeArmon with two.

The second game was stopped after six innings because of the eight-run rule. The Otahkians, leading just 2-1, broke the contest open with four runs in the fifth and six more in the sixth.

Southeast had 11 hits in the nightcap, led by Jenny Oermann and Kim Palmer with two apiece. Oermann drove in three runs while Palmer had two RBIs.

Freshman Adriene Salerno got the victory in her first collegiate start. She worked three innings, allowing one run. Christine Engelhardt hurled the final three frames in scoreless fashion.

The Otahkians will return to action this weekend in the Southern Illinois Tournament in Carbondale.