YOUNGSVILLE, La. - The Harding softball team took a 2-0 lead in the first inning and didn't give up the lead the rest of the way as it defeated Union 2-1 in the final game of the Mardis Gras Invitational.

Harding improves to 4-1 on the season and Union falls to 0-5.

Senior Lily Tanski (1-0) started in the circle and picked up the win for Harding. The right-hander went five innings, giving up one run on two hits, allowing one walk and striking out three. Junior Abby Burch also made an impact in the circle for the Lady Bisons, throwing two shutout innings while allowing one hit, with no walks and one strikeout. Burch earned the save, her third of the season.

In the batter's box, the Lady Bisons were paced by senior Hannah Garrett, who went 2-for-2 on the day with a double. Sophomore Emma Curry furnished a standout performance as well, going 1-for-2 with a double and a walk. Sophomore Leigha Harris also went 1-for-3 with an RBI.

HOW IT HAPPENED

In the bottom of the first inning, Leigha Harris hit a single that scored Hanna Jones from second. Two batters later, Chelsea Blankenship reached on an error that scored Harris.

Union's only run came in the sixth inning on a fielder's choice out at second with the bases loaded.

GAME NOTES

» The Lady Bisons out-hit the Bulldogs at a 6-3 clip.
» The Lady Bisons had five stolen bases in the game.
» Harding pitchers limited Union (TN) to just 1-for-5 (.200) with runners in scoring position.
» Harding pitchers faced 26 Union (TN) hitters in the game, allowing nine ground balls and eight fly balls while striking out four.
» Union (TN) was led offensively by sophomore Morgan Jennings, who went 1-for-3.

Harding will be back in action next weekend as it takes part in the Alvy Early UAM Softball Classic in Bentonville, Arkansas. The Lady Bisons will kick off the classic against Central Missouri Friday at 11 a.m.