GREENEVILLE, Tenn. – Anderson softball (14-12, 0-4 SAC) dropped a pair of games against South Atlantic Conference foe Tusculum extending its winning streak to 12, highlighted by a complete-game shutout from Megan Ackerman and a late-game rally in the nightcap. The Pioneers (25-1, 4-0 SAC) secured a 5-0 victory in the opener before staging a dramatic 6-5 comeback in the second game.

Game 1: Ackerman's Shutout Leads Pioneers
Ackerman allowed just two hits while striking out five over seven innings. The Pioneers backed her early, scoring four runs in the first four frames.

Anderson struggled offensively, mustering just two hits from junior Jenna Davis and Chloe Maness. Starter junior Katie Morris (6-6) took the loss despite an impressive eight strikeouts over six innings, allowing five runs (three earned) on seven hits. Defensive struggles plagued Anderson, as they committed four errors.

Game 2: Tusculum Rallies Late for 6-5 Win
In the second game, Tusculum found itself trailing 5-1 entering the bottom of the sixth before erupting for a five-run inning to take the lead. Third baseman Gabi Nicholson went 2-for-3 with an RBI while catcher Sammy Jimenez delivered a crucial two-run sacrifice fly. Shortstop Ellie Alvarez added an RBI single as the Pioneers surged ahead.

Anderson built an early lead with runs in the first, fourth, and fifth innings. Right fielder senior Maddie Carpenter led the offense, going 2-for-3 with an RBI double, while first baseman junior Lauren Brakovec and second baseman sophomore Paige Vickery contributed run-scoring hits.

Dani Beckham (4-0) earned the win in relief for Tusculum, allowing two runs on four hits over three innings. Ackerman returned to close out the final frame, securing her third save of the season.

Anderson's Sarah DePaola (1-2) suffered the loss, surrendering five earned runs on 10 hits over 5 1/3 innings.

Anderson continues its road swing with a stop at SAC member Newberry on Wednesday. First-pitch of the doubleheader is slated for 1pm.