GREENWOOD----The Lander softball team struggled in its season-opener Saturday afternoon when the Bearcats lost to Brenau University, 6-5 (extra innings), and 9-2, in Brandon Duncan's head coaching debut at Doug Spears Field. (Game 1 Box | Game 2 Box)

In the first game, Marisa Litster (1-0) earned the victory, striking out five, walking seven and allowing five earned runs on five hits in the complete eight-innings.

Lander's Jenna Kellett (0-1) took the loss, striking out three, walking two and allowing four runs on two hits in three innings.

For Lander, Lindsey Whitfield (1-for-4, one run scored) and Haley Foster (1-for-4, one run, one RBI) both doubled, while Daisy Stewart, Carrie Hudson and Natalie Smith all got singles.

For Brenau, Maggie Renfro went 2-for-3 with one run and one RBI.

In the second game, Missy Herrin (1-0) claimed the win, striking out eight, walking two and allowing two runs on four hits in the complete seven innings.

Lander's Aerin Phillips (0-1) suffered the loss, allowing six runs on four hits in one inning.

For Lander, Smith went 2-for-3 with one run, while Amber Yarborough went 1-for-3 with two RBI and Brandi Bagwell went 1-for-3 with one run.

For Brenau, Litster went 1-for-4 with one home run and three RBI, Renfro went 3-for-5 with two runs, Colleen Sparrow went 3-for-4 with one run and two RBI, and Tori Fobb went 2-for-4 with one run.