MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. - The Kentucky Christian University softball team jumped out to an early lead and held on for a 5-1 victory over Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI) on Monday morning. With the win, the Knights improve to 1-0, while the Engineers conclude their Spring Trip with a 4-2 record.

Kentucky Christian plated a single run in the second, before scoring four times in the third. Freshman shortstop Brooke Williamson (Paintsville, KY/Johnson Central) delivered the big blow, capping rally with a two-run double to right. 

Knights starter Emma Conley (Brooksville, KY/Bracken County) scattered six hits over the first 5.1 innings. The Engineers were able to scratch a run across in the sixth, when pinch-hitter Morgan Kollmeier (Kennett Square, PA/Kennett) singled with the bases loaded, scoring pinch-runner Rebecca Kienz (Newburgh, NY/Valley Central) from third.

Senior righthander Kristina Weltzin (Commerce Town, MI/Walled Lake Northern) was saddled with the loss, allowing five runs on three hits in 2.1 innings. She struck out two and walked four. Sophomore Stephanie Caudle (Gainsville, FL/Gainville) was nearly untouchable in her 3.2 innings of scoreless relief. She gave up two hits, while striking out nine.

Junior Taylor Tenh Eyck (Guilderland, NY/Guilderland) finished 2 for 4 with a double, while sophomore Courtney McArthur (Coventry, RI/St. Mary Academy) was 2 for 2 with a walk.

The Engineers are back in action on Saturday, when they host Ithaca College in their home opener at Robison Field (1pm). Kentucky Christian faces Frostburg State at 1:30pm on Monday.