ATHENS, OHIO – The Niagara softball team dropped both games of its doubleheader against the Cleveland State Vikings on Wednesday.

Niagara 0, Cleveland State 8 (5 innings)

A five-run first inning by the Vikings was enough for the home team. CSU got a two-run homer by Cynthia Woodard, a RBI double by Katelind Phillips and two-run single by Mackenzie Joecken.

The Purple Eagles held the Vikings scoreless for the next three innings; however, NU only had one hit in the game which came in the third inning. Sarah March singled and Sarah Trifoso reached on an error as Niagara was mounting a comeback, but Katelyn Gruarin grounded into a double play to end the inning.

The Vikings, who loaded the bases with one out, scored three runs in the fifth inning to build an 8-0 lead to call the game.

Niagara 0, Cleveland State 9 (5 innings)

NU attempted to get off to a better start in game two, but struggled offensively. The Purple Eagles (0-18) placed their first two batters on base in the first inning after a bunt single by Gruarin and walk by Taylor Moody. However, Niagara's next three batters went down in order which included a sacrifice bunt.

The Vikings (15-10) once again scored five runs in the opening inning. CSU added one run in the third and fourth innings and two in the fifth inning for a 9-0 lead to call the game.

The Purple Eagles begin MAAC play on Friday against the Fairfield Stags.

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