Greenville, N.C. – Sophomore Grace Pilaczynski's pinch-hit two-run single in the bottom of the fourth inning lifted the Youngstown State softball team to a 5-2 win over Appalachian State on Saturday.

The Penguins, who improve to 8-6 on the year, also lost East Carolina, 9-1.

With the game knotted a 2-2, the Penguins used a three-run fourth inning to pull away from the Mountaineers. Jillian Jakse and Conchetta Rinaldi each singled to lead off the frame. Elyssa Imler's infield single plated pinch-runner Reese Campbell-Schaller to break the tie.

With pinch-runner Audrey Thomas on third, Imler stole second and both runners scored on Pilaczynski's single down the right-field line.

The Penguins scored two unearned runs in the bottom of the first to take a 2-1 lead after one. The Mountaineers tied the game with a run in the top of the second inning.

Sara Fessler went 2-for-3 and scored a run.

Sophie Howell picked up her fourth win of the year throwing a complete game with six strikeouts.

Against East Carolina, Kennedy Dean belted a solo home run while Imler went 2-for-2.

Youngstown State closes out the tournament against St. Joseph's on March 3 at 10 a.m.