The University of West Georgia jumped out to a 6-1 advantage and turned back a late Lee University rally to win the series opener between the two Gulf South Conference foes on Friday evening.
With one out in the top of the seventh the Lady Flames threatened to tie things up after first baseman Lexie Dean singled and advanced to second on a Wolves’ error. Lee would be unable to bring her home however as reliever Katie Shultes wriggled out of the jam to earn her third save of the season.
After giving up four runs in the bottom of the fourth the Lady Flames responded with a four spot of their own in the fifth frame.
After two quick outs, Amanda Lynn walked and scored on Dean’s double to left center.
Dominique Hannah followed with a run-scoring single and after a walk and pitching change Kaylie Drew completed the scoring with a two-run double down the right field line.
Leigh Beatenbough (3-4) was tagged with the loss for Lee. The freshman worked 3 1/3 innings and gave up six runs but just two were earned. She yielded four hits and struck out a batter.
Angie Hughes pitched the final 2 2/3 innings and kept the Lady Flames within striking distance by giving up just one hit while striking out four.
Amanda Voyles led the Wolves in hitting with two RBI. Randi Phillips added a double and Heather Sexton tripled. The home team managed just five hits but made the most of three Lee errors.
Dominique Easterly was credited with the win for the Wolves after going 4 2/3 innings and giving up five runs (four earned). Easterly struck out three but struggled with her command giving up four walks.
The loss drops the Lady Flames to 9-7 on the year and 1-5 in the GSC. The victory propels West Georgia 8-9 overall and 3-4 in league play.
The two clubs will wrap up the series tomorrow with a doubleheader beginning at 12 noon. Lee won the season series last year after taking 2-of-3 from the Wolves at Butler Field.