Freshman Nicole Sum was 5 fo 6 in Niagara's first two games in the Patriot Classic in Fairfax, Va.

NIAGARA UNIVERSITY, N.Y. – The Niagara University softball team (3-9) split a pair of games on the first day of the George Mason Patriot Classic in Fairfax, Va.

The Purple Eagles beat Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference opponent Marist, 3-1 to open the Classic. Senior Tegan Bennett (Stouffville, Ont.) picked up the win on the mound, throwing a one hitter with three strikeouts.

At the plate, freshman Nicole Sum (Burnaby, B.C.) was 2 for 3 and senior Angie Clarke (Grafton, Ont.) was 2 for 4 with three stolen bases.

Niagara lost the second game on the day, 7-0 to host George Mason. Sum again led the Purple Eagles, going 3 for 3.

The Purple Eagles return to action Saturday when they play St. Francis (N.Y.) and UMBC.