Mobile, Alabama – The Central Arkansas Bears opened play at the 2017 Sand Dollar Classic with a pair of games on Friday. In their opening tilt, the Bears fell to Jacksonville State 7-0, before wrapping up the day with a 2-0 loss to host South Alabama.

Central Arkansas (0-3) struggled offensively against the Gamecocks (2-0), managing just one hit and three walks. Senior Hannah Stirton collected the only hit of the game for UCA, a single up the middle, while freshmen Lauren Brooks and Kailla Searcy and junior Kate Myers each drew a walk.

Senior Kayla Gomness (0-2) took the loss for Central Arkansas, surrendering seven runs on 10 hits and a walk while striking out four in 5.1 innings. Freshman Jordan Ward made a successful collegiate debut, allowing a single to the first batter she faced before settling in to force a fielder's choice and a fly out.

The Bears' offensive woes continued against South Alabama (2-0), as they were again held to just one hit, an infield single off the bat of Myers. Freshman Kaylyn Shepherd was UCA's only other baserunner, thanks to a hit-by-pitch in the second.

Sophomore Ellie Reaves (0-1) was effective in her first start for the Bears, scattering seven hits over seven innings while walking one and striking out three. She gave up a two-run home run in the third inning that proved to be the difference-maker.

Central Arkansas returns to action tomorrow afternoon, taking the field for a rematch against Jacksonville State at 3:00 PM.