AIKEN, S.C. – The University of South Carolina Aiken softball team lost an 8-1 decision to Lander Monday afternoon.

The Pacers are now 16-10 overall and 3-3 in league play. The Bearcats are now 24-2 on the year and 6-0 against league foes.

Lander took a 2-0 lead in the second inning on a round-tripper.

In the bottom of the third, Holly Daum singled and moved to second when Brianna Dow was hit by a pitch. However, a groundout ended the threat.

In the fourth, Emily Ayers singled but was erased on a fielder's choice. Lauren Wexler, who reached on a fielder's choice. She moved to second on a wild pitch. With two down, Ashlyn White walked. However, another groundout ended the threat.

Lander added another run in the fifth to make it 3-0. The Bearcats added five runs in the seventh to break open the contest.

Brooke Moore launched a solo homer in the bottom of the seventh for the final tally. For the game, Ayers, Daum and Moore registered hits. Ayers and White each had walks.

Rebekah Cook got the start in the circle. Lakyn Phillips and Payton Baker also saw time in the contest. Phillips had four strikeouts while Baker had one.   

The Pacers return to action Saturday when they play at Young Harris starting at 4 p.m.