GREEN BAY, Wis. - The Green Bay softball team (19-12, 5-6) couldn't overcome a three-run deficit in the final frame as they took a 3-1 defeat to Cleveland State Sunday at Ben Garot Field. The Phoenix stranded nine runners on base in the loss.

For the third consecutive game, the Phoenix saw Amanda Macenko on the mound for the Vikings (31-10, 11-1). Green Bay looked more comfortable at the plate in today's tilt, as they recorded eight hits and drew three walks from Macenko. However, the Phoenix was only 2-for-9 with runners in scoring position, failing to take advantage of multiple opportunities.

With Cleveland State leading 3-0 heading in the last half of the seventh inning, the Phoenix tried putting together one last rally. Jenna Nitti (Green Bay, Wis.) singled sharply to left field to lead off the inning, bringing Sara Junion (Egg Harbor, Wis.) to the plate. Junion rifled a two-strike pitch up the middle but Viking shortstop Tess Sito was positioned perfectly to record the double play on the speedy Junion. With two outs, Melani Niederer (New Munster, Wis.) laced a double to left-center to extend the inning. Danielle Peerenboom (Appleton, Wis.) then tripled off the top of the left-center field fence, nearly missing a home run, which scored Niederer. With the Phoenix trailing by two Katie Cooney (East Moline, Ill.) smashed a line drive to right but once again, the Vikings were in perfect position to record the final out.

Cooney kept the Phoenix close with her performance on the mound as she went the distance giving up only five hits, while striking out two. The tough-luck decision drops her record to 5-7 on the season.

Green Bay will continue Horizon League action Wednesday as it travels to Chicago to take on UIC. The first pitch of the doubleheader is set for 3 p.m.  

--www.GreenBayPhoenix.com--