AIKEN, S.C. – Anderson University softball (19-17) and USC Aiken (15-19) each secured a win in a two-game non-conference softball series today at J.H. Satcher Field. The Pacers edged the Trojans 4-3 in the opener, while Anderson rallied late for an 8-5 victory in the night cap.

In the first game, Mallory Shaver powered USC Aiken to a 4-3 win with a perfect 3-for-3 performance at the plate, driving in three runs, including a crucial home run. Despite being outhit 12-4, the Pacers capitalized on timely hitting, scoring twice in both the fourth and sixth innings. Lakyn Phillips (8-3) earned the complete-game victory, scattering 12 hits while striking out nine and allowing two earned runs.

Anderson struck early with a two-run homer from Junior Shelby Bandt in the first inning but managed just one additional run the rest of the way. Junior Katie Morris (9-8) took the loss despite limiting the Pacers to just four hits and two earned runs over six innings. Senior Maggie Nauck led the Trojans, going 2-for-3 with a double, while freshman Chloe Maness added three hits and an RBI.

In game two, Anderson overcame a 4-1 deficit with a late offensive surge, scoring three runs in the sixth and four in the seventh to claim an 8-5 win. Junior Lauren Brakovec led the charge, going 2-for-4 with a double, and a key three-run homer in the sixth to tie the game at 4-4, while Nauck delivered the final blow with a homer in the seventh inning to put the Black and Gold ahead, 7-5.

Junior Jenna Davis had a standout performance at the plate, finishing 4-for-5 with two stolen bases, while senior Maddie Carpenter added three hits and an RBI. Anderson's pitching staff combined to hold USC Aiken to five runs on nine hits, with Anna Grace Clay (1-0) earning the win in relief and Morris securing the save with a scoreless seventh.

Anderson remains on the road while returning to its conference slate when it plays SAC foe Limestone on Saturday. First-pitch of the doubleheader is slated for 1pm.