DANVILLE, Va. — Averett University softball split a conference doubleheader with Eastern Mennonite University on Sunday afternoon, dominating Game 1 before falling 4-1 in Game 2. 

The Cougars (16-8, 3-3) opened the day with an 8-0 run-rule victory in five innings over the Royals (5-15, 1-7 ODAC). Senior pitcher Hannah Zabik was in control throughout, tossing a complete-game shutout while striking out eight and allowing just four hits. 

Offensively, Averett broke open in the fourth inning with a five-run surge. Junior Carson Bradsher led the way with two hits and two RBIs, while juniors Mackenzie Newcomb and Kadence Woodlief each drove in runs as the Cougars totaled eight hits and drew seven walks in the win. 

In Game 2, Eastern Mennonite responded with a 4-1 victory to earn the split. Averett managed just one hit in the contest and couldn't recover after the Royals scored two runs in the first inning and added two more in the fourth. Senior Kailey Gates drove in the Cougars' only run in the opening frame. 

Averett hosts Methodist University for a rescheduled non-conference doubleheader on Thursday beginning at 2 p.m.