ORANGEBURG, SC -- The Shaw Lady Bears put together a valiant effort on Saturday, but ultimately came up short, losing to the Kentucky State Thorobreds by the score of 4-1 in the season opener at the CIAA/SIAC Challenge.

Freshman Syhia Marks was stellar despite the pitching loss for Shaw. The right-hander went six innings, giving up four runs, zero earned, on three hits, allowing one walk and striking out three.

In the batter's box, the Lady Bears were led by sophomore D'Amani Gadson, who went 1-for-3 on the day with an RBI.

HOW IT HAPPENED

The Lady Bears got on the board immediately, starting their scoring with one run in the top of the first inning. Shaw got an RBI single from Gadson, scoring senior Regina DeDecker from second base. The Lady Bears were unable to hold the lead, as Kentucky State scored four times over the remaining six innings to grab the 4-1 win.

GAME NOTES

» Shaw's highest scoring inning was the first, when it pushed one run across.
» Marks stole two bases in Saturday's game.
» Shaw pitchers limited Kentucky State to just 0-for-9 with runners in scoring position.
» Shaw pitchers faced 26 Kentucky State hitters in the game, allowing five ground balls and nine fly balls while striking out three.
» Gadson led the Bears at the plate, going 1-for-3 with an RBI.