BRIDGEPORT, W.V. – The Malone University softball team dropped their first game of the Regional Roundup event on Friday to West Liberty University by a score of 8-0. The Hilltoppers advanced to 3-4 with their six-inning victory and the Pioneers are now 2-1.
 
Mia Rose started the game by striking out the side and in the second inning, fanned the first two batters as well. Sidney Conti was the game's first baserunner in the bottom of the second with a harmless walk.
 
It was in the top of the third where West Liberty would do damage. A sacrifice fly and a three-run homerun put the Hilltoppers in front 4-0. Madi Pukansky, Rose and Faith Yoho reached base from the lead-off spot in each of the third, fourth and fifth innings, but the Pioneers left runners stranded in each frame. Yoho recorded the team's lone hit on the day.
 
A two-out grand slam by West Liberty in the top of the sixth put the Hilltoppers ahead 8-0 and forced Malone to score or the game was over. The Pioneers loaded the bases behind a pair of errors and a hit by pitch, but were unable to extend the contest in the 8-0 loss.
 
Conti reached base twice with a walk and hit by pitch and Yoho had a single to go 1-for-3. In the circle, Rose (1-1) struck out 11 but five hits and six walks as well as some defensive miscues plated eight runs (seven earned).
 
Malone will play two games on Saturday, March 1 beginning with Bluefield State University at 11:30 A.M. followed by a 7:00 P.M. showdown with Salem University.