MONTGOMERY, Ala. – Alabama State University softball dropped a 4-1 decision to Jacksonville State University on Tuesday evening at the Barbara Williams Softball Complex.

The Hornets (18-30) struck first in the bottom of the third inning. After Addison Giles drew a walk and moved into scoring position, Alana Scott delivered an RBI single up the middle to plate pinch runner Angela Knox and give Alabama State a 1-0 lead.

Jacksonville State answered in the fourth inning, capitalizing on miscues to take control. The Gamecocks scored three runs in the frame, all unearned, beginning with an RBI bunt that tied the game. A throwing error allowed another run to cross, and an RBI double later in the inning pushed Jacksonville State ahead 3-1.

The Gamecocks added an insurance run in the seventh inning on an RBI double to extend the lead to 4-1.

Alabama State threatened in the final inning, putting two runners on with two outs following consecutive singles by Arianna Cox-Cole and Scott, but Jacksonville State closed the door to secure the win.

Scott led the Hornets offensively, going 2-for-4 with an RBI, while Cox-Cole, Brooke Ramsey, and Talee Sims each added a hit.

In the circle, Mason Quinnie (4-7) was tagged with the loss, allowing three runs (none earned) on three hits with two walks and three strikeouts in 4.0 innings of work. Kaitlyn Hill pitched the final 3.0 innings, surrendering one run on three hits with one strikeout.

Jacksonville State's Mackinley Portillo (7-6) earned the complete-game victory, allowing one run on five hits while striking out three.

Alabama State returns to action this weekend for Southwestern Athletic Conference play, hosting Missisisppi Valley State on Friday at 6 p.m.