KENNESAW, GA – The Alabama State softball team gave it a valiant effort, but dropped both ends of a Wednesday nonconference doubleheader at Kennesaw State by the scores of 2-0 and 8-2. 
 
In game one, Maddie Phelps placed the Lady Hornets in position for a potential victory, but a couple of big hits by Kennesaw State's Rachel Dennis and Megan Veringa was enough as the host Owls squeaked by in front of their home crowd at Bailey Park. 
 
In the second inning, Kennesaw State (25-19) took a 1-0 lead on a RBI triple into the right field corner by Dennis.
 
In the sixth inning, Veringa made it 2-0 with a solo home run to center field.
 
Phelps (14-8) tossed six innings and allowed just two runs on seven hits and struck out three without walking a batter to keep ASU in it. 
 
ASU left three runners on base overall including two in the first inning. 
 
The team started the fifth inning with a roping smash up the middle by Carly Evans. 
 
Chelsea Rivera pinch ran for her and stole second base, but the Lady Hornets left her stranded on base. 
 
In game two, Alabama State (21-22) fell behind early as the Owls put up a three-run first on an error, hit by pitch and a RBI single. 
 
ASU got back into the game with a run in the top of the third when Alexia Boggess scored on a ball hit by Valerie Centeno, who reached on a fielder's choice.
 
KSU got it back in the bottom half of the third on a Dennis triple as she scored on a throwing error.
 
Charlene Castro beat out an infield single to lead off the fourth. 
 
Rivera showed some swift base running by taking second on a wild pitch and then motored around to beat the tag and score on a ball hit by Kendall Core. 

Freshman catcher Taylor Rosser threw out a base runner attempting to steal second on a bullet throw down to second.  
 
Up next
Alabama State will host SWAC opponent Mississippi Valley State for a three-game series beginning Friday at 5 p.m. from the Barbara Williams Softball Complex.
 
Stay tuned for weather reports as the game may be switched to Sunday. 
 
The series will continue with a Saturday doubleheader scheduled for 1 p.m. 
 
#GOHORNETS#