HOUGHTON, N.Y. -- Houghton softball picked up a two-game split with Hartwick on Saturday, taking the first game in dramatic fashion 4-3 before falling 13-3 in the second contest.

In the opener, Olivia Carr turned in a strong performance on the mound, going the distance to get the win. The hurler spread 10 hits over seven innings, allowing just three runs while striking out eight and not registering a walk.

But it was the late-inning offensive heroics that ultimately earned the win. Houghton trailed 3-1 heading into the bottom of the sixth. Two singles and an error loaded the bases for Rebecca Oates, who drove in one run with another single. And a fly out by Jaedyn Shields tied the score at 3 apiece. Carr gave up a single to lead off the top of the seventh, but then retired the next three Hawk batters to give Houghton a chance.

Carr then reached on an error to open the frame and advance to second on a passed ball. After Danielle Nelson popped out, Abigail Pitts ended the game with a double that drove in Carr from second.

The Highlanders tallied seven hits led by a 3 for 4 performance from Abigail Pitts. Rebecca Oates chipped in with two hits and two RBI. 

Hartwick found its offense in the second game with 14 hits, including a homer and three doubles. They came alive with two five-run innings to take control.

Houghton finished with five hits, with Kareena Ulfig collecting two, including a double, in the contest and scoring a run.

Ulfig allowed 13 runs on nine hits over seven innings. She walked two and struck out two.

The Highlanders next play Nazareth at home on Tuesday, April 15 at 3 and 5 p.m.