The Jackson State University Lady Tigers defeated Tennessee Martin and Southern here at the JSU Softball Field on Friday for their seventh and eighth wins of the season, edging the UTM Skyhawks 6-5 and the Southern Lady Jaguars 3-2, in the Capitol City Invitational Tournament.
 
"These were good wins for us," said JSU head coach Kevin Montgomery.  "We have made some real improvements this year and really feel good about playing the games.  I just hope we can keep it going and stay healthy for a run for it in the end."
 
The Lady Tigers, who are 8-6 on the season, gave up an early run in their contest with UT Martin when first baseman Katie Drieling scored after having reached base on a single, giving visiting Skyhawks a 1-0 lead after one.
 
In the bottom of the third, JSU struck paydirt twice to take a 2-1 lead, with right fielder DeNaudia Smartt scoring after reaching base on an error, and centerfielder Lauren Stewart scoring on a wild pitch after reaching base on a walk.
 
Following both teams adding a run in the fifth inning, the Lady Tigers found themselves trailing 5-3 after UT Martin exploded for three runs in the top of the sixth inning.
 
In the decisive seventh and final inning, JSU had a barrage of runs of their own, the first score of the inning coming when infielder Mari Stephens reached base on a bunt and later scored on a fielder's choice by catcher Isabel Gusman, making the score 5-4 UT Martin.
 
Later in the inning, designated hitter Isis Taylor blasted a two-run double to right center, scoring both pinch runner Breanna Kimber and Stewart, giving the homestanding Lady Tigers their one-run victory.
 
Later in the day, JSU picked up its 3-2 victory over Southern.
 
JSU's will face Tennessee Martin again in the Capitol City Classic on Saturday at 11 a.m.