TEMPE, Ariz. – The SIUE softball team wrapped up play at the Arizona State Littlewood Classic as they took on in-state opponent Illinois State Sunday at Farrington Stadium.

The Cougars were edged 4-3 in eight innings against the Redbirds to go 1-4 on the weekend.  Despite some losses against a number of the top-ranked programs in the country, Head Coach Sandy Montgomery was pleased with her team's overall performance.

"We played very competitive softball this weekend," Montgomery said.  "Our players learned a lot about themselves and what they're capable of.  We beat Michigan State and lost to Illinois State on a tough call.  I'm glad we were able to play at this level; it will pay off at the end."

Against Illinois State, SIUE jumped out to a 3-0 lead after an inning and a half with Rachel Coonrod, Jordan LaFave, and Alex McDavid each producing an RBI.

The Redbirds responded, however, hitting a two-run home run in the bottom of the second inning and eventually tying the game at 3-3 in the sixth inning.  ISU's Stephanie Gallant delivered the game-winning hit in extra innings with an RBI single that scored Sara Bradley.

In the circle, Haley Chambers allowed just three earned runs on five hits while striking out six in 7.2 innings of work.  Regan Romshek got the win for Illinois State, not allowing a run in 6.2 innings.

"Romshek threw a great game against us, and we couldn't get it done from an offensive standpoint," Montgomery said.  "Haley threw very well.  The home run she gave up wasn't a bad pitch, but that's part of playing at this level.  We just have to keep battling."

SIUE also was defeated by third-ranked Washington Saturday night.  Montgomery said she was proud of pitcher Erin Greenwalt's performance against the Huskies.

"Erin was a bulldog for us all weekend coming back from injury," Montgomery said.  "She's shown toughness and has been very resilient.  She's done a nice job all the way through."

The Cougars will be back in action next weekend when they travel to Jackson, Miss., for five games at the Jackson State Tournament.  Play begins Friday with SIUE facing Kansas at 11 a.m.

"We played much better this weekend," Montgomery added.  "We have to keep working on getting timely hits and being able to make adjustments against good pitching.  We're young and we're still learning."