WILLIAMSBURG, Ky. --- Bookending a pair of big innings, NAIA No. 7-ranked University of the Cumberlands (Ky.) took the rubber game of the three-game series against the University of St. Francis softball team with an 8-0 victory on Saturday morning.

The Patriots (8-2) put up three runs in the first inning before ending the contest early with a five-run fifth inning.  Emily Delgado delivered the big blow with her three-run home run to left field in the opening frame.

The Saints (3-2) had their own chance to get out in front early, using three first-inning walks to load the bases with two outs.  Jessica Cord (5-0) was able to get out of the jam that she created herself with a strikeout to end the threat.  It was the only one recorded on the day by the winning pitcher against five walks.

Morgan Smardo provided the lone hit for St. Francis, which was shutout for the first time this spring.  Her single to center field came with two outs in the second inning.

USF had only two more runners reach base after that, both on walks to open the third and fourth innings.

Up Next
The Saints return to Kentucky next Saturday when they face Brescia University (Ky.) in a doubleheader beginning at 12 pm.

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