MIAMI – The FIU softball team allowed four runs in the bottom of the sixth after leading 3-0 in an eventual 4-3 loss to Sam Houston on Friday night in the opening game of a weekend Conference USA series.
 
Sam Houston flipped a 3-0 deficit into a 4-3 lead in the top of the sixth. Tricia Yarotsky, who led off the inning with a walk, scored the first run on an error by Whitney.  Harleigh Carter followed with a run-scoring single that plated Julie Herzinger.  Jordan Peno provided the big blow with a two-run double down the left field line to give the Bearkats the lead for good.
 
After two and a half scoreless innings, the Panthers got on the board with the assistance of a defensive miscue by the Bearkats in the bottom of the third.  Collier Peaden scored on a bunt attempt by Kally Meredith which saw Sam Houston's Morgan Holiday throw an errant toss that went down the right field line – allowing Peaden to cross all the way from first.
 
The Panthers increased the lead to 3-0 in the bottom of the fourth when Bailey Grossenbacher, who opened the inning with an infield single, scored on a groundout by Casey Goguts.  Ella Whitney also crossed on a two-out shot up the box by Abigail Brown that ricocheted off the Sam Houston pitcher and into foul territory on the third base side.
 
The Panthers finished the contest with six hits – the lone extra-base hit was a double by Brown.
 
FIU starter Jewelie Vanderkous allowed two runs and four hits over five innings.  Alina Varga (5-8) took the loss after allowing two runs and two hits over two innings of relief.
 
Amy Abke (9-8) notched the win for Sam Houston after allowing three runs, two of which were earned, and six hits over the complete seven innings.
 
UP NEXT
The Panthers (18-27, 5-14 CUSA) will continue the weekend set with Sam Houston (18-27, 6-13 CUSA) on Saturday, April 27. 
 
First pitch is scheduled for 1 p.m. ET.
 
TICKETS
For more information on FIU Softball season and individual tickets, including student ticketing, call 305-FIU-GAME or visit the FIU Athletics Online Ticket Office.
 
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