LYNCHBURG, Va. - Jacksonville University softball (13-30, 1-12 ASUN) played an early morning matchup with the ASUN leading Liberty Flames (31-16, 13-3 ASUN) on Friday. With runs a scarcity throughout the game, the Dolphins found themselves needing just one to tie in in the final half inning, but ultimately fell 2-1 in the series opener. 

Only two innings saw runs score in the game, beginning with a 2-run bottom of the third that gave the Flames a lead. The Dolphins managed to cut the deficit in half in the bottom of the fifth when Haley Holloway hit an RBI double that scored Carolyn O'Neal. 

Two innings later, Jacksonville was threatening again after Kasi Shaffer walked and represented the game-tying run. The Dolphins were't able to drive the run home, resulting in the 2-1 final. 

Nydia Perez had the most successful day at the plate for JU. The freshman recorded two of the Dolphins four hits, while Hannah Roberts and Holloway combined for the others. Holloway now has a pair of doubles and five RBIs this season.

In the circle, Alyssa Bilodeau allowed two runs on six hits in the loss. However, the junior did record six strikeouts on the day and currently ranks third in the conference in the category. Liberty's Julia DiMartino received her 16th win of the season.

Next, Jacksonville plays the final two games of the Liberty series tomorrow, April, 20. The doubleheader is scheduled to begin at 10 AM and each game will be broadcast on ESPN+.