TROY, Ala. – Georgia State softball (19-12, 1-3 SBC) dropped a 1-3 decision to Troy on Friday night at the Troy Softball Complex.

Makayla Stephens turned in a strong outing in the circle, striking out eight over six innings. Stephens allowed two earned on five hits, while walking one.

HOW IT HAPPENED
Georgia State struck first in the opening inning. McKenzie Walker crossed the plate on an RBI single from Lauren Brister to give the Panthers an early 1-0 lead.

Troy answered in the bottom half of the inning, using an unearned run to even the score at 1-1.

The game remained tied until the fifth, when the Trojans took control. The Trojans opened the inning with a solo home run followed with an RBI triple to extend the lead to 3-1.

Georgia State was unable to respond over the final two innings as Troy secured the 3-1 win.

GAME NOTES
» Stephens struck out eight over six innings of work.
» Georgia State scored its only run in the first inning.
» Georgia State pitching held Troy to 1-for-9 (.111) with runners in scoring position.
» Brister drove in the Panthers' lone run, finishing 1-for-3.
» McKenzie Walker and Allison Jones each recorded a hit and a stolen base.

ON DECK
The Panthers continue the series at Troy on Saturday, March 21, with first pitch set for 4:30 p.m. ET at the Troy Softball Complex.