SPARTANBURG, S.C. – In a battle between circles, it was Upstate who outlasted Longwood and took home the third win of the first conference series of the season.
 
Sydney Backstrom knocked seven strikeouts and allowed six hits on two runs verse the tough Spartan offense, Saturday afternoon. On the other side, it was Hannah Houghe who grabbed nine strikeouts, two walks, and seven hits on zero runs that le the home side to its 20^th victory of the seasons.
 
Despite a tough defensive effort from the Virginia conference foe, it was USC Upstate who was able to capitalize on its slim options who saw victory at the end of the day.
 
"Not the start we wanted for Big South play," said head coach Megan Brown. "Have a tough road going forward, but are grateful for the privilege of the hard work ahead."
 
An active first inning saw, Sarah Price scoring on a single to second base served by Bella Bertot early in the game. A home run over right center sent off in the sixth inning sealed the game for the Spartans as they secured the victory and the series over the Lancers.
 
Houge earned nine strikeouts from the outing in the complete game she pitched – only see seven hits on zero runs scored.
 
Longwood returns to actions next week again another conference foe of Charleston Southern for its second Big South series of the year.
 
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