Reading, Pa. (Mar. 29, 2016) - Alvernia University (9-9) dropped a set of games to Penn State Berks (10-3), falling 1-0 and 7-3 in nonconference softball action Tuesday afternoon at Angelica Park.

In the opener, Penn State scored its lone run in the top of the first when Ashley Malek doubled to left to plate Jenna Heffner, who reached by walk earlier in the inning.

The Crusaders had an opportunity to tie things up in the third after Emily Carmella opened the bottom half of the frame with a walk. With one out, Brianna DePriest doubled down the line to give Alvernia runners on second and third. An infield single by Psiuk juiced the bases, but the Crusaders were unable to convert a run.

Alvernia moved runners into scoring position in the sixth and seventh innings as well, but came up short.

Brittany Brown and Taylor Fouracre put together a combined effort on the mound, surrendering just four hits.

In the nightcap, the Lions jumped ahead 7-0 in the top of the second.

The Crusaders recouped two runs in the bottom of the third. Sam Conte opened the inning for Alvernia, reaching on a Penn State error. After advancing to second on a passed ball, Conte came around to score on a Carmella double. Aly Shilling then added a double of her own to cross Carmella to cut the margin 7-2.

Alvernia tacked on its final run in the sixth. Morgan Petry, Morgan Psiuk and Brianna Fisher put together a string of singles, with Psiuk shortening the gap 7-3 as she scored on a Taylor Malinish fielder's choice.

The Crusaders threatened a rally in the bottom of the seventh, loading the bases with two outs, but the Lions worked out of the jam.

Kayla Andrews and Brittanie Wolfe each saw time on the mound, scattering nine hits in seven innings.

Offensive leaders for the Crusaders were Brianna DePriest (4-for-7), Aly Shilling (3-for-7), Emily Carmella (2-for-5) and Morgan Psiuk (3-for-8).

Alvernia hits the road on Thursday, traveling to Lebanon Valley College for a MAC Commonwealth double header starting at 3:00 pm.