MONTGOMERY, Ala. | Alabama State ran past Jackson State 9-0 in Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) action Friday night at the Barbara Williams Softball Complex, opening a three-game series.

Alabama State (18-25, 8-4 SWAC) used the run-rule in the fifth to end the game early, using a six-run third inning to push past Jackson State (8-30, 2-14 SWAC).

The Lady Hornets scored early when Casey Durham scored on a fielder's choice by Kristin Gunter, before Hatty Shope drew a bases loaded walk to give Alabama State a 2-0 lead in the first. Alabama State then erupted for six runs in the third, beginning when Amira James doubled home Kaitlyn Kilner for a 3-0 lead.

The lead grew when Aimee Felices used a bunt single to drive in a pair of runs, before Jordan Amerson pushed home a run on an RBI groundout. The final runs of the inning came across on a Kaylee Davis bunt single and a single by Gunter for an 8-0 lead.

Alabama State added another run in the fourth inning when Hailey Walker doubled home Kilner for the final margin. Davis finished the game 3-for-3, while Walker added a pair of hits. Justine Jean (8-9) picked up the win with a complete game effort, allowing just one hit and recording seven strikeouts.

The two will continue the series Saturday afternoon with a doubleheader beginning at 1 pm at the Barbara Williams Softball Complex.

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