Youngstown, OH-The Cleveland State softball team split a doubleheader Thursday afternoon at Youngstown State. The Vikings won the first game 3-1 but fell in the second game 8-4.

In the first game Cleveland State got off to a fast start scoring all three runs in the first inning. Cleveland State put the first two runners aboard and then with two outs, Melissa Holzopfel roped a double down the right field line to bring in Brooke Albaugh. Peyton Mueller-Stenz followed with a two-RBI single that pushed the lead to 3-0 as Holzopfel and Meridith Rankl crossed home plate.

The three runs turned out to be more than enough for Holzopfel, who scattered six hits throughout a complete-game performance. She gave up one unearned run and struck out eight, while walking just one batter.

In the second game, the two teams traded blows early. The Penguins took an early 2-0 lead with two in the bottom of the second.

Sophie Spellman kick started the Viking rally in the top of the third with a solo home run. The Vikings added three more runs in the frame to open up a 4-2 lead.

Youngstown State responded with two in the bottom of the third and from there it was all Penguins. YSU scored four more runs and held the Vikings in check the rest of the way.

The Vikings are now 11-8 in Horizon League play and remain in fourth place in the league standings. The rubber match of the three-game set will take place on Saturday at 2:30 p.m.