LIVINGSTON, Ala. - The University of West Alabama softball team defeated Valdosta State University in game one of a three-game Gulf South Conference series 7-5 at the UWA Softball Complex on Saturday night.

After leadoff hitter Kelsie Gilliam was walked, Taylor Clegg hit an RBI double to right center to give the Tigers the early 1-0 lead.

The Lady Blazers loaded the bases in the top of the third, allowing an Abby Sulte sacrifice fly to tie the contest up at one apiece.

West Alabama answered quickly, scoring three runs in the bottom of the third courtesy of Marissa Mitchell and Riley Sullivan RBIs and a VSU error.

The Tigers were far from done as Mary Grace Sheffield and Kori Young hit back-to-back home runs to stretch the lead to five, 6-1.

The Lady Blazers made their strong final stand in the top of the sixth, scoring four runs, capped off by a Jasmin Stewart three-run shot that made it a one run contest.

Taylor Clegg answered with a solo home run to extend the UWA lead heading into the seventh.

Madison Wright slammed the door on the Valdosta comeback effort, striking out Abby Sulte to clinch the game one win.

Wright earned her ninth win of the season from the circle with a five-strikeout performance.

Eight of the nine Tigers hitters had a hit in the contest, led by Taylor Clegg, Marissa Mitchell and Kori Young with multi-hit performances.

West Alabama moves to 14-7 overall and 5-5 in GSC play while Valdosta falls to 14-10 and 7-4.

The Tigers and Lady Blazers will conclude the series on Sunday afternoon with a doubleheader. First pitch is set for noon at the UWA Softball Complex.