ROHNERT PARK, Calif. - The Sonoma State softball team pounded out seven hits and five runs to take the opening game against San Francisco State 5-1, then came within inches of winning game two, but were denied in a 1-0 loss Friday afternoon at Seawolf Diamond.

Sonoma State (10-14 overall, 4-8 CCAA) took control early in game one scoring a run in the second inning, three in the third, and another in the fourth. They out hit the Gators (13-15, 9-7) 7-3 in game one, but it was game two that held all the drama.

With two outs in the bottom of the sixth inning, trailing 1-0 and with two on, SSU pinch-hitter Carli Feuerbach hit what seemed to be a sure two-RBI single over the third baseman's head to give SSU the lead. But at the last minute, SFSU shortstop Monica Amburgey made a diving catch to rob the hit and preserve the lead.

Lindsay Emmel took the loss despite pitching masterfully. She went the distance allowing only one run on four hits and struck out a career high 11 batters. Of her 11 strikeouts, seven of them came via the Gators' 3-4-5 hitters.

Game one saw Simone Brandalise throw seven innings allowing only one run on three hits. She kept the Gators off the scoreboard until the sixth inning when she allowed a home run.

Ashley Eisemann led the offense with three hits on the day including two doubles in game one. Claire Hiney and Alex Winters each recorded two hits on the day.

The two teams meet again tomorrow at 12:00 pm at Seawolf Diamond.

Box Score Game 1
Box Score Game 2