Box Score

KISSIMMEE, FLA.:  Southern Indiana rallied for five runs in the sixth and seventh innings to defeat Southwest Minnesota State 6-5 in SMSU's season opener in Kissimmee, Fla.

SMSU held a 5-1 lead heading into the bottom of the sixth inning but the Screaming Eagles scored two unearned runs in the sixth to trim the Mustang lead to 5-3.  In the seventh USI rallied with three more runs to stun the Mustangs.

Amanda Tucci led the SMSU offense belting a two-run home run.  Jessica Paczosa had three RBI while Amanda Opatz and Meaghan Laetsch each recorded two hits. 

The Mustangs scored all their runs early, scoring three runs in the second inning and two more in the third  In the second, Opatz led off with a single which was followed by a bunt from Burkhart which allowed her to reach base as Opatz was called safe at second base on a fielder's choice play.  Meaghen Leatsch then hit a single to load the bases which was followed by a triple from Paczosa allowing three runs to score.

In the third, Erin Dickhausen started off the inning with a base hit bunt which was followed by a bomb from Tucci putting SMSU up 5-1.  SMSU however was unable to hang on as USI put together a late rally for the win.

Amanda Johnson started and suffered the loss for SMSU on the mound.  Johnson pitched 6.1 innings and had eight strikeouts in the loss.