FERRUM, Va. -- Ferrum College split a USA South Athletic Conference softball doubleheader with #17 Averett University this afternoon at Franklin Community Bank Field. The Panthers won the opener 7-2, then fell 1-0 in game two.

A six-run third inning would prove to be too much for Averett as Ferrum jumped out to a 7-0 lead after three innings and held on for the win to start the day. Aiyana Lew, Miyana Ross and Amber Coffin each had a pair of base hits for Ferrum. Amanda Roberts got the win after pitching an inning in relief of starter Emily Taylor.

Laura Young had a solo home run in the top of the seventh inning to give the Cougars (25-1-1, 15-1) all they would need in the nightcap. Mary Beth Smith earned the win, improvng to 15-1 on the mound this season. Ferrum's Courtney Rudd absorbed the loss, pitching a four-hitter with eight strikeouts.

Ferrum (18-8, 11-5 USA South) returns to the diamond Saturday, April 4, at home against Greensboro College. The USA South doubleheader is scheduled to get underway at 1:00 p.m.