CHICKASHA, Okla. – The Central Methodist University softball program dropped a pair of contests in Oklahoma on Friday afternoon against Avila University and No. 2-ranked University of Science & Arts – Oklahoma (USAO).

GAME ONE vs AVILA (L 16-7)

Avila got on the board early after putting up six runs through the first two innings. Kelli Gorman (JR/St. Charles, Mo.) cut the deficit with a grand slam in the bottom of the second, leaving Central trailing by just two.

Avila was able to expand its lead after putting up four unanswered runs through the next two innings. A single from Lexi Jones (JR/Wentzville, Mo.) plated one run in the bottom of the sixth, but AU responded with a six-run rally in the final frame. CMU closed the contest with a pair of runs in the bottom of the seventh after a single from Adalia Sewell (FR/Kearney, Mo.) plated one and a hit by pitch brought home the second.

Keighlan Cronin (SO/St. Charles, Mo.) was charged with the loss after surrendering six runs through 1.2 innings tossed. Sabrina Otzenberger (JR/Cedar Hill, Mo.) and Carley Millz also appeared in the circle, but neither could come up with the save.

GAME TWO vs No. 2 USAO (L 9-1)

Both teams were scoreless until the third inning when a swinging bunt from Hannah Criswell (JR/Kennett, Mo.) plated the first run of the game, giving the Eagles a brief 1-0 advantage. USAO responded by scoring nine unanswered runs through the next four innings, buoyed by a five-run inning in the bottom of the third frame.

Madison Love (JR/Holts Summit, Mo.) took the loss in the circle after surrendering nine runs on eight hits, while knocking out six batters, through 6.2 innings pitched.

UP NEXT:

The Eagles will face No. 3-ranked Oklahoma City at 12 PM tomorrow in OKC, followed by a neutral contest against Avila at 2 PM.