TALLAHASSEE, Fla. | Alabama State University softball team allied from a 6-3 to earn a 9-7 victory over the Florida A&M University on Friday.

Freshman Ana Richiez (5-0) picked up the victory out of the bullpen for Alabama State (18-20, 8-5). The left-hander went two innings, giving up one run on three hits. Freshman Kohana Pousson also made an impact in the circle for the Hornets, throwing one scoreless inning while allowing no hits, with no walks and one strikeout.

In the batter's box, the Hornets were led by junior Alexia Denby, who went 3-for-4 on the day with two doubles and two RBI. Sophomore Alana Scott put together a standout day at the plate as well, going 1-for-3 with a triple and three RBI. Freshman Kendall Smiley also chipped in for Alabama State, putting together two hits in four trips to the plate while adding an RBI.

HOW IT HAPPENED

The Hornets got the scoring started early, putting one run on the board in the top of the first inning. Alabama State scored three runs in the frame, highlighted by a two-run single off the bat of Denby.

The Hornets lost the lead they built in the first, but got back on the board in the sixth trailing 6-3. The Alabama State offense exploded for four runs, highlighted by a one-run error off the bat of Smiley, which brought the Hornets lead to 7-6.

Florida A&M came back to even the ballgame at seven before Alabama State reclaimed a 9-7 advantage in the seventh inning. The Hornets notched a couple on a two-run triple from Scott. The score remained 9-7 for the rest of the game, as Alabama State held on for the win.

GAME NOTES

» Denby had three hits in the game for Alabama State.
» The Hornets power output was led by Denby, who picked up two extra base hits in the ballgame.
» Alabama State's highest scoring inning was the sixth, when it pushed four runs across.
» Alabama State pitchers limited Florida A&M to just 3-for-15 (.200) with runners in scoring position.
» Alabama State pitchers faced 37 Florida A&M hitters in the game, allowing 13 ground balls and two fly balls while striking out four.
» Denby led the Hornets at the plate, going 3-for-4 with two doubles and two RBI.
» Florida A&M was led offensively by senior Nyah Morgan, who went 2-for-3 with a double and four RBI.
» Junior Samantha Smith led the Rattlerettes pitching staff, throwing seven innings of nine-run ball.

UP NEXT: Alabama State and Florida A&M conclude the seris with a doubleheader on Saturday at noon (CT).