DOVER (April 22, 2009) ? The Delaware State Hornets (20-16, 6-2 MEAC) split a conference doubleheader with the Hampton Pirates (19-20, 5-4 MEAC) today, at the Hornets Nest. Both contests lasted extra innings.

In Game One, both teams had their aces on the mound (Amanda Black and Brittney Ruark) which proved to be difficult for the hitters.

Both hurlers battled through eight innings unscathed until the Pirates scored on a groundout in the top of the ninth. The Hornets couldn't capitalize in the bottom of the inning ending the game at 1-0.

Ruark and Black (reigning two-time MEAC pitcher of the year) both threw complete games with Ruark giving up the one run.

In Game Two, there was more offense from both teams but the game still needed extra frames.

Both teams tallied a run in the first inning, but DSU took the lead in bottom of the fourth inning scoring two runs on three hits. Waters led the rally with a triple to lead off the inning. She also homered to lead off the game, her team-leading fifth of the season.

Casey Beighly started the game on the mound for DSU but Ruark came in to relieve in the top of the seventh inning. She gave up two runs in the inning (credited to Beighly) allowing the game to go to extra innings.

In the extra frame, Hampton scored a run to take the lead but the Hornets tied the game on a wild pitch and won it 5-4 on a Beighly groundout.

Ruark got the win in relief, throwing 1.1 innings.

These two teams will meet again for a non-conference contest tomorrow, at 2:04 p.m. The game will be broadcasted live on ESPNU.