CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. – SIUE softball scored six unanswered runs in the fourth and fifth innings Sunday but dropped an 8-6 decision to Chattanooga at Warner Park.

SIUE fell to 3-7 for the season while Chattanooga improved to 4-5.

"We showed great character in fighting back, but it was a little too late," said SIUE Interim Head Coach P.J. Finigan. "It was another slow start that we have to improve on. We will do a better job getting the team ready to play from the first pitch."

Grace Lueke and Piper Montgomery both hit solo home runs in the fourth inning.

SIUE rallied for four runs in the fifth, including RBIs from Lauren Yslava and Montgomery.

"We had lots of big hits and contributions all the way around. Piper Montgomery was fantastic again. Lexi King had an exceptional weekend as well," added Finigan.

Chattanooga used three pitcher en route to its victory. The Mocs scored in each of the first three innings, including a five-run third inning.

The Cougars next head to the Hub City Challenge Feb. 25-27 in Hattiesburg, Mississippi. SIUE faces Evansville, Southern Mississippi, and Alcorn State during the tournament.

"It also was great to have Bailley Concatto and Katie Smith back this weekend," he said. "Hopefully, we can continue to get healthy and improving."