JACKSON, Tenn. – Union softball celebrated Senior Night in impressive fashion Friday, sweeping No. 16 Montevallo in a doubleheader at Fesmire Field by scores of 3-0 and 5-0. Seniors Courtney Marler, Emily Claire Felder, Riley Vaughn, and Mallory Hildebrand were honored following the games after helping lead the Lady Bulldogs to two shutout victories over the nationally ranked Falcons.

In game one, senior Riley Vaughn was outstanding in the circle, tossing a complete-game four-hit shutout while striking out six. Vaughn allowed just one walk and controlled the game from start to finish.

After four scoreless innings, Union broke through in the fifth. Cassidy Goddard reached on a walk before senior Mallory Hildebrand got aboard. Bella Lopez then reached to load the bases, setting the table for Rylee Moore, who drilled a three-run double to left field for the only runs of the opener.

In game two, senior Emily Claire Felder matched Vaughn's effort with a complete-game three-hit shutout. Felder did not issue a walk and needed just 79 pitches to secure the win.

Union struck first in the opening inning when senior Courtney Marler singled and later scored. Sydney Scott added an RBI double, while a Montevallo error allowed another run to cross for a 2-0 lead.

The Bulldogs added three more runs in the third inning. Bella Lopez singled to begin the rally before Marler ripped a two-run double to left center. Chloe Jones later reached on an error that brought Marler home and pushed the lead to 5-0.

Marler finished game two with two hits and two RBIs, while Scott, Lopez, and Paige Garetson each added two hits. Union pitchers combined to hold Montevallo scoreless over 14 innings, allowing just seven total hits on the day.

The Bulldogs return to action tomorrow as the series with Montevallo continues at Fesmire Field.

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