LEXINGTON, Ky. – After a nearly two-week hiatus, Longwood softball returned to action today at the John Cropp Classic hosted by the University of Kentucky. The Lancers lost their opening game of the tournament to Michigan in a close 2-1 affair, and their second game of the afternoon against DePaul was canceled due to low temperatures.

Maggie Chapin started on the mound for the Lancers, retiring the side 1-2-3 in the bottom of the first before being replaced by Er'ron Burton, who picked up the loss following today's game.

Longwood (10-10) opened the game's scoring thanks to solo shot from Korynna Anderson in the second inning to put the Lancers ahead 1-0. However, Michigan (13-10) swiftly responded, connecting on a solo home run of their own in the corresponding half inning.

The two sides would be deadlocked until the fourth inning when Michigan's Ellie Sieler broke the tie with a solo shot of her own. Despite several hits being allowed on both sides, consistent play from both pitchers kept the game scoreless the rest of the way.

Burton provided some solid play on the mound through 4.1 innings, striking out five while conceding only one walk. Michigan's Lauren Derkowski threw a complete seven innings to go along with eight strikeouts to help seal the Wolverines' victory.

"The key to close games is execution, and at many times it comes down to one pitch or one at bat," said head coach Dr. Megan Brown. "We have to continue to fight and work to win each pitch."

The Lancers were scheduled to face DePaul at 5 p.m. following the game against Michigan, but the contest was canceled due to inclement weather. As a result, the schedule of tomorrow's games is set to be changed.

"We say it all the time, there is no 100% in our games, so we just have to stay ready and control the things we can," said Dr. Brown. "Excited for an opportunity to play again tomorrow."

To stay up to date with everything Longwood softball and receive updates about tomorrow's games, be sure to follow us on Twitter and Instagram @LongwoodSB and stay tuned to longwoodlancers.com.

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