JACKSONVILLE, Fla. - Jacksonville softball began its 2020 campaign with a home contest against the San Diego State University Aztecs Thursday night as part of the River City Leadoff tournament. Despite a six strikeout effort by senior pitcher Alyssa Bilodeau and two Jacksonville runs in the first two innings the Dolphins fell by a score of 5-2.

Seniors Makenzie Buss and Carolyn O'Neal combined a pair of singles in the early stages of the game, but the score remained through the remaining five innings for the Dolphins.

The Aztecs claimed the lead early, scoring four of their five runs in the first inning and the last in the third.

Down 5-2, Bilodeau managed to hold the Aztecs through the remaining five innings to pitch her 40^th career complete game.

The 'Phins made a final push in the bottom of the seventh with freshman Ashley Darakjian pinch hitting for freshman Hallie Kern. Darakjian, reached first after being hit by a pitch. With sophomore Nydia Perez in to pinch hit for senior Seana Mora. Perez reached second on a throwing error, allowing Darakjian to move to third in position to score.  Unable to capitalize with two runners on base the Dolphins took a 5-2 decision in the season opener with a strike out. Marissa Moreno of San Diego was credited with the win, allowing five hits and two runs. 

"I expected us to play better on opening night. We didn't really play well in any phase of the game. I expect us to bounce back tomorrow and play better," commented Head Coach Erica Ayers.

Jacksonville returns to action tomorrow on the second of four days that make up the River City Leadoff tournament. Jacksonville will face Nicholls State tomorrow at 5 PM.