SEMO sports briefs 3/7/04

Southeast Missouri State's gymnastics team finished second in the the Gym'Back Invitational at the University of Arkansas.

The Otahkians (12-3) picked up wins over Centenary and Texas Women's University and finished behind the host team in the four-team event.

Southeast posted a score of 194.625 in its loss to No. 20 Arkansas.

Senior Ashley Godwin, who posted a perfect 10 earlier in the season, finished third in the all-around with a 39.125.

The Otahkians have posted scores of at least 194 points in its last four meets.

Southeast closes out its season at Eastern Michigan on Saturday at 7 p.m.

Tennis drops opener

Southeast Missouri State's tennis team lost its home opener 7-0 to Drury, ranked No. 28 in NCAA Division II.

"The results weren't quite what we wanted, but there was lots of enthusiasm out there on the courts," Southeast coach Jay Pacelli said.

Southeast Missouri State (0-8) hosts Arkansas State today at 1 p.m.

SEMO softball splits a pair

Southeast Missouri State University's softball team split a pair of games Saturday at the Hilltopper Spring Classic in Bowling Green, Ky.

In a game continued from Friday, Southeast (1-1) defeated Belmont 4-2. Kelly Birk pitched all eight innings, striking out six and allowing only three hits.

Birk added two hits and an RBI in the win.

Lindsay Pickering also had two hits and added two RBI.

In the second game of the day Southeast lost 10-0 to host Western Kentucky in five innings. The Otahkians managed only two hits off Hilltoppers starter Allison Silver.

-- From staff reports