MONROE, La. – SIUE softball hit five home runs in what turned out to be a cold day at the Best on the Bayou Classic day two, but the Cougars fell twice.

Host Louisiana-Monroe bested the Cougars 9-4 in the opening day of the game. SIUE dropped a 12-9 contest to Syracuse in the nightcap.

"We're doing a great job with our offensive approach," said SIUE Interim Head Coach P.J. Finigan. "We're putting together some competitive at-bats."

Grace Bretveld blasted her first home run of the season in the opener.

Lauren Yslava, Lexi King, Mia Haynes, and Grace Lueke all homered against Syracuse.

Finigan said Kelsey Ray did a great job in relief during game one of the day.

"We have the talent in the circle," said Finigan. "It's a day to get better."

The Cougars have one more game left in the tournament, facing Evansville in a 9 a.m. contest Sunday.