MAGNOLIA, Ark. – The East Central University softball team traveled to Magnolia, Arkansas on Friday night to take on Southern Arkansas University but struggled to find offensive rhythm in a 9-0 setback.

Despite the result, ECU will have a quick turnaround as they look to bounce back in Saturday's doubleheader, set to begin at 1 p.m. in Magnolia.

Southern Arkansas jumped out to an early lead, plating three runs in the opening inning and never looking back. The Muleriders continued to apply pressure throughout the game, adding two more runs in the third before breaking it open with a four-run sixth inning to secure the run-rule victory.

The Tigers were unable to get their bats going, as Southern Arkansas limited ECU's opportunities at the plate with just one hit in the second inning. Lylith Harris drew a walk, advanced to second, but was thrown out at home plate after Kenni Tudor singled to left field.

In the circle, Kennedy Schroeder went 5.1 innings, allowing nine runs (seven earned) on 11 hits in the loss.