BEAUMONT, Texas -- The University of Maine softball team was defeated by Lamar University, 4-2, on Friday night at the LU Softball Complex.
 
Brianna Neely, earning her first start of the 2019 season, reached base on her first career at bat as she singled to the left side of the infield. With Neely on third, Alyssa Derrick did her job and hit the pitch to second base. The Black Bears led 1-0 after the top of the first.
 
The Cardinals tied the game in their half of the first when Shannon Klaus crossed home plate on an Elizabeth Castillo ground out.
 
After reaching on a hit by pitch, Shaina Amir reached third base in thanks to two wild pitches. Victoria Garivey, as Castillo did, grounded out to the shortstop, driving home Amir from third. Lamar held a 2-1 after two innings.
 
Maine evened the score in the top of the fourth after freshman Grace McGouldrick doubled home Meghan Royle. Royle, who doubled earlier in the inning, was standing on second base when the freshman stepped into the box. Entering the bottom of the fourth, the teams were tied at two.
 
A walk and three singles equaled two runs in the bottom of the fourth for Lamar. The two runs ended up being the final scores of the contest. Maine threatened in the top of the fifth but was unable to push across any runs. With the score staying the same, the Black Bears drop to 0-2 on the new season.
 
Notes:

• Emily Reid started the game for Maine going 3.0 innings, while allowing two earned runs and striking out four. Lilly Volk (0-1) went the final 3.0 innings and also allowed two earned.
• Brianna Neely and Meghan Royle each tallied two hits and scored one in the second game of the day. Alyssa Derrick and Grace McGouldrick drove home the two runs.

Next: The Black Bears will return to the diamond tomorrow, Saturday, February 23rd to take on Lamar and UTSA, again. First pitch of game one is scheduled for 4:30 pm.

-UMaine-