Karmen Bernard led Alcorn State to a 7-3 victory over Arlington Baptist in non-conference softball play at the River City Classic, held at JSU Softball Field on the Jackson State campus. Bernard went 3-for-3 at bat, scored twice, and drove in a run for the Braves.
Arlington Baptist started the scoring with a single from catcher Mariely Duran in the second inning. Alcorn responded in the bottom of that frame, scoring three runs aided by an error from Arlington Baptist.
In the fifth inning, Arlington Baptist tied it up after back-to-back singles by centerfielder Caelie Evans and Elizabeth Werner allowed two runs to score. However, Alcorn regained the lead when Paris Thompson grounded out to third base but advanced Olivia Miller home after she walked earlier in the inning.
Alcorn extended its advantage in the sixth inning. Freshman first baseman Layla Watts hit her first collegiate home run to start the inning, giving Alcorn a 5-3 lead. Later, Ka’Miya Dillon singled to right field and brought home Karmen Bernard and Sanai Salvant.
Chiara Olison pitched a complete game for Alcorn State, allowing three runs on six hits while striking out three batters. Jenika Fuentes started for Arlington Baptist and took the loss after allowing seven runs on 11 hits over five innings.
Evans led Arlington Baptist’s offense with three hits in four at-bats; Duran added two hits. For Alcorn State, Bernard was perfect at bat.
Alcorn State will continue play Saturday with games against Alabama A&M and Jackson State as part of the River City Classic. Both contests are non-conference matchups.
