CHARLESTON, W.Va. — The West Liberty softball team dropped a 4-1 decision to Ashland on Friday afternoon at the UC Invitational, falling to 3-7 on the season.

Ashland (2-4) capitalized on early opportunities and added insurance in the fourth inning, while limiting the Hilltoppers to four hits in the contest.

Ashland struck first in the bottom of the opening frame. An RBI groundout from Cassidy Shaffer plated the game's first run before Kate Kujawski reached on a fielder's choice to bring home another, giving the Eagles a quick 2-0 advantage.

West Liberty responded in the top of the second. Annaliese Davis reached and later came around to score on a wild pitch after Delaney Deitrick and Delaney Homer advanced into scoring position, trimming the deficit to 2-1.

The Eagles extended their lead in the fourth inning when Danielle Robbins delivered a two-run single, pushing the margin to 4-1. That would be all the offense Ashland needed.

West Liberty threatened at times but was unable to string together timely hits. The Hilltoppers finished with four hits — one each from Jillian Morr, Jaden Conrad, Annaliese Davis and Delaney Homer.

Kadence Pettit (2-2) went five innings in the circle, allowing four runs on seven hits while striking out two. Ashlyn Tapman worked a scoreless sixth inning in relief.

Ashland's Delaney Lis (1-1) went the distance, scattering four hits and allowing just one run while striking out three to earn the complete-game victory.

West Liberty will continue play at the UC Invitational on Saturday when they face Ashland again at 12:30 p.m. and Ohio Dominican at 5:30 p.m. 



West Liberty University blends a small-town environment with a comprehensive college experience, fostering students' aspirations through hands-on learning, personalized support, and unique academic programs at both undergraduate and graduate levels. Learn more at westliberty.edu.