SALEM, Va. – The Mercyhurst softball team opened the first day of weekend competition against members of the West Virginia Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (WVIAC) by splitting a pair of games Friday, March 19. The Lakers fell to Seton Hill, 2-1 in nine innings before defeating Fairmont State, 9-4.

As a result of Saturday's action, the Lakers now hold a 9-10 record on the season. Mercyhurst has gone 4-2 against WVIAC opponents in 2010.

Mercyhurst and Seton Hill played to a 1-1 tied through seven innings, forcing extra innings to be played. The Griffins scored during their half of the eighth inning, claiming a 2-1 victory.

Sophomore Kristi Janoske gave up two unearned runs on eight hits in eight innings of work, striking out eight batters. Seniors Anna Glomb and Amber Rapose hit one double apiece for the Lakers.

The Lakers responded in the afternoon tilt against Fairmont State, scoring eight runs over the first five innings in a 9-4 victory.

Freshman Julie Harmon recorded a double and belted her first career home run, while Michelle Schmitz added a round-tripper as well. Sophomore Emily Redig hit a double against FSU.

Junior Amanda Norman pitched five innings, allowing three runs on six hits, earning her fifth win of the season. Janoske yielded one run on one hit in two innings of relief.

The Lakers will play three games Saturday, March 20, beginning with a 9 a.m. contest against Davis & Elkins. Mercyhurst will then play Virginia State at 11 a.m. and Ohio Valley at 8:30 p.m.