GULFPORT, Miss. -- The Florida A&M Rattlers took a 5-4 lead into the sixth inning, but could not hang on and fell 9-5 to the Alcorn State Lady Braves Wednesday as their 2023 season comes to an end.

Sophomore Lauryn Peppers (7-10) came out of the bullpen for Florida A&M (20-24) and took the loss.

In the batter's box, the Rattlers were paced by senior Melkayla Irvis, who went 2-for-3 on the day with a walk and an RBI. Senior Natasha Fox put together a standout effort as well, going 1-for-1 with two RBIs. Senior Nyah Morgan also contributed for Florida A&M, putting together one hit in two trips to the plate while adding a double and a walk.

HOW IT HAPPENED
The Rattlers got on the scoreboard first, starting in the second inning. Morgan came across to score the lone run of the inning for Florida A&M and get them on the board.

The Lady Braves then rallied to score four runs and take a 4-1 lead before the Rattlers got back on the board in the third. Florida A&M scored three runs in the frame, buoyed by a two-run single off the bat of Fox, which brought the score level at 4-4.

That 4-4 tie turned into a 5-4 Florida A&M lead in the fourth. The Rattlers scored once on an RBI single off the bat of Irvis. The Rattlers were unable to hold the lead, as Alcorn State scored five times over the remaining three innings to grab the 9-5 win.

GAME NOTES
» Florida A&M's highest scoring inning was the third, when it pushed three runs across.
» Florida A&M pitchers faced 40 Alcorn State hitters in the game, allowing seven ground balls and 11 fly balls while striking out two.
» Irvis led the Rattlers at the plate, going 2-for-3 with an RBI.

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