BOX SCORE

KISSIMMEE, Fla. – Ashland University's Emlyn Knerem tossed a complete game shutout, striking out nine batters to lead the Eagles to a 2-0 win over Southwest Minnesota State University on Tuesday morning at the Rebel Spring Games in Kissimmee, Fla.

Knerem improves to 5-0 on the season, helping Ashland to a record of 7-2, while SMSU falls to 4-1 on the season with freshman pitcher Rachel Hoeppner falling to 2-1 on the season.

The Eagles struck first in the top of the second inning scoring one run without recording a hit in the inning. After a leadoff walk, three straight batters reached on a fielder's choice, allowing the first run of the game to cross the plate.

Ashland pushed its lead to 2-0 in the top of the third inning after back-to-back doubles by Franki Gironda and Taylor Menhart.

Ashland's Emlyn Knerem tossed three innings of no-hit softball before Kris Penick slapped a single down the left field line in the bottom of the fourth. Penick would end up stranded on second base after being sacrificed to second base and Steen flew out to left to end the inning.

Chelsey Rodenkirch begain the fifth inning with a single up the middle but Knerem struck out the next two batters before getting Shelbie Stoll to ground out to first base to end the inning.

Chelsey Evans came into the game in relief of Hoeppner and tossed four scoreless innings.

Southwest Minnesota State returns to action at 12 p.m. C.S.T taking on Holy Family (Pa.)