CLERMONT, Fla. -- Houghton softball dropped an 11-3 decision to Finlandia University to open Thursday's play and wrapped up the day with a 7-0 loss at the hands of Mt. Vernon Nazarene University.

Against Finlandia, the Lions struck first with a run in the top of the first, but Houghton responded to put two across in the second. Kaylee Jentsch doubled to center to bring home Kelly Parmeter and Lauren Couturier. 

Finlandia broke open the game with nine runs over the next three innings and added their final score in the top of the seventh, while holding the Highlanders without another run.

The Lions had a 15-7 advantage in the hits column. Jenny Young and Katelyn Cook each produced two hits to lead Houghton.

Jentsch went 3 1/3 on the mount, allowing six runs on five hits while walking three. Taylor Sile allowed 10 hits over 3 2/3 with five runs allowed.

In the day's second game, the Cougars did their damage early, exploding for six runs in the first three innings. Justine Philliips and Lauren Couturier had the only Houghton hits in the contest. 

Nicole Fata went the distance on the mound, allowing seven runs on 12 hits and four walks.

Houghton (0-6) returns to action Friday with games against Neumann (11:30 a.m.) and Capital (2 p.m.).