DUNCAN, SC - The Emmanuel softball team competed in the first round of the Conference Carolinas Softball Championship on Friday against Barton College. 

The Bulldogs defeated the Lions, 3-2 after an extra inning in a pitching battle. However, since the tournament is double-elimination the Lions will still have the opportunity to make a run at the title as they will face either Lees-McRae or Erskine on Saturday. 

Conference Carolinas Pitcher of the Year Maddie Edwards went the distance for the Lions, throwing 147 pitches in the 8 inning marathon. She recorded four strikeouts and allowed zero runs over the first five innings. However, with the score tied 0-0 in the top of the sixth, the Bulldogs hit a one run homer, taking the advantage with just an inning and a half to go. The Lions responded in the bottom of the sixth, after Ellee Varner's single eventually led to her scoring. With the score tied 1-1, neither team crossed the plate in the seventh inning, sending the game to an extra frame. In the top of the 8th, the Bulldogs sent two runners home with a double to center field. In the bottom of the same inning, Ellee Varner scored off a Sac Fly from Alyssa Adams, pulling the Lions within a run. However, the Bulldogs were able to finish the game before the Lions could score again, resulting in a 2-3 loss for Emmanuel. 

Ellee Varner led the Emmanuel offense with two hits in four at bats. The sophomore also scored two runs. 

Next up, Emmanuel softball will face the loser of the Lees-McRae vs Erskine game on Saturday at 1:00pm. 

For more on Emmanuel College athletics, visit goeclions.com.