March 1, 2003
Chattanooga, Tenn. - The Western Kentucky University softball team (2-6) enjoyed a 3-1 lead over Akron today in the Frost Classic after the first inning, but squandered their advantage by committing six errors over the course of the game, falling to Akron, 7-4. The Hilltoppers picked up just three hits after the first inning and dropped their sixth game of the year, despite a career day from Renita Pennington. The sophomore outfielder set new career highs with three hits and two runs scored, while swiping a WKU record three stolen bases.
After the Zips tacked on a run in the top of the first, the Hilltoppers responded by tallying three runs in the bottom of the inning. Junior Riley Garcia and Pennington and Shelly Floyd opened the inning with consecutive singles, with Floyd's hit plating Garcia for WKU's first run of the game. Western added two more runs, thanks in part to two errors by Akron, and left the first inning with a 3-1 lead. Junior Allison Silver dropped to 0-2 on the season, despite allowing just two earned runs in 5.0 innings after coming on in relief of freshman Adrienne Lathrop in the third inning.
The Hilltoppers take on tournament host Tennessee Chattanooga later this afternoon and will close out the tournament on Sunday with games against Tennessee State and Marshall.
- WKU -
