NASHVILLE, Tenn. — Mississippi College split a Gulf South Conference doubleheader Friday against Trevecca Nazarene University, falling 8-3 in the opener before responding with a 5-3 victory in the nightcap.
The Choctaws moved to 18-11-1 overall and 9-5 in GSC play with the split, setting up a निर्णining Game 3 in the weekend series on Saturday afternoon.
Trevecca used a big first inning to take control of Game 1. A three-run home run by Annabelle Ellis highlighted a four-run frame as Mississippi College fell behind early. The Trojans added three more runs in the fifth to extend the lead.
Mississippi College managed just two hits in the opener but capitalized in the fifth inning when Madelyn England delivered a two-RBI single to cut into the deficit. Sarah Lee added an RBI single in the sixth, but the Choctaws couldn't overcome the early hole.
Reagan Rios (4-4) took the loss in the circle, allowing seven runs—four earned—over four innings, while Bailey Goad earned the win for Trevecca.
The Choctaws bounced back in Game 2 behind a strong all-around performance, collecting 12 hits and getting a complete game from Camryn Bailey.
Mississippi College struck first in the second inning as Mary Lem drove in a run with a single, followed by a sacrifice fly from Morgan Lavergne to make it 2-0.
Trevecca responded with three runs across the fourth and fifth innings, including a solo home run by Annalise Mecklenburg, to take a 3-2 lead.
The Choctaws answered in the sixth when Sarah Lee launched a game-tying home run to left center. Mississippi College then pulled ahead in the seventh, using a sacrifice fly from Lee and an RBI single by England to secure the 5-3 win.
Bailey (10-4) went the distance, allowing three runs—two earned—on seven hits while striking out nine.
England led the Choctaws at the plate in Game 2 with two hits and an RBI, while Shelby Samples added two hits and scored a run.
Mississippi College and Trevecca Nazarene will meet in the series finale Saturday, with first pitch set for 1 p.m. in Nashville.
