In a rain-shortened day, the Fairleigh Dickinson University softball team fell to Akron, 4-1, at the Rebel Spring Games in Kissimmee, FL. The Knights were originally scheduled to play Iona and Rider, but due to inclement weather, were rescheduled against Akron on Thursday evening.

Akron posted a three-run second inning to take the lead. The Knights answered in the top of the fourth inning as Justina Augustine (Geneva, NY/Geneva) and Ali Keltos (Shelton, CT/Lauralton Hall) had back-to-back outfield singles. Brianne Benedict (Alliance, OH/West Branch) was hit by a pitch, advancing the runners. Lindsay Glidden (Peachtree City, GA/Starr's Mill)'s patience at the plate drew a walk that scored Kristen Coughlan (Mount Royal, NJ/Kingsway) to put the Knights on the board.

Akron sealed the win with another run in the fourth to make the final 4-1. Keltos finished the game 2-for-3 to lead the Knights offensively, while Benedict, Brittany Sheppard (Mahwah, NJ/Paramus Catholic) and Augustine each recorded a hit.

“We left people on base, in scoring position,” said Head Coach Dale Martin. “Basically, we need to capitalize on those opportunities. Getting hits at the right time is a big key. That is something we need to improve on, something we have to be able to do to win games.”

“The other piece of it is being fundamental," said Martin. "Those things combined will allow us to be successful in the future.”

The Knights will wrap up competition at the Rebel Spring Games with contests against Iona and Cornell at Friday, March 21.