Feb. 18, 2006

Final Stats

DAYTON BEACH, Fla. - Alabama State had rough start to the 2006 season, losing both games of a doubleheader at Bethune-Cookman - 13-1 and 20-1 - at Sunnyland Park.

The Hornets had 10 total hits in the doubleheader but committed 13 errors as both games ended in five innings due to the 8-run mercy rule. The start was not what head coach Telma O'Neal had hoped for but understands she is dealing with an inexperienced group.

"We had a lot of mental errors today. We put the bat on the ball but our defense needs to be more mentally focused," said O'Neal, coaching her first games since returning to her alma mater.

The Lady Hornets' only run in the first game came on a solo home run by senior Candise Jacobs. Karissa Whaley also added two hits in the opening game.

In game two, ASU took a 1-0 lead in the top of the first when Latitia Hayes' double drove home Pamela Curry, who went 3-for-3 and stole two bases. But the Wildcats scored eight times in the bottom half of the inning to take control of the game.

Alabama State is in action again on Feb. 26 when it plays a doubleheader at Birmingham Southern. First pitch is scheduled for 1 p.m.