TOWSON, Md. - The Towson University softball team opened its home schedule on Tuesday afternoon by sweeping a doubleheader against local rival Morgan State (2-7) by scores of 14-2 in game one (five innings) and 15-7 in game two (six innings).

 After Missy McCormick's two-run homerun in the first inning gave the Tigers an early advantage, Towson (10-7) plated 11 runs on 11 hits in the third inning.

Maureen Hepner and Jessica South each hit two-run homers as part of the output, as the Tigers also got a two-run single off the bat of Olivia Yarbrough to break the game open.

McCormick then shutdown the Bears' bats, cruising through Morgan State's lineup and allowing just four hits in five innings of work. The game was ended after the top of the fifth due to the run rule. She struck out five and did not walk a batter en route to her fourth victory of the season.

In game one, Hailey Balk went three-for-three with three runs batted in (RBI) and three runs scored. McCormick and Hepner each homered, drove in three runs and scored twice, while Yarbrough and South each scored twice and had two RBIs.

In game two, the Tiger bats stayed hot and pounded out 17 more hits. McCormick and Courtney Johnson both homered, while Hepner went three-for-three with three RBIs and three runs scored.

Freshman infielder Jodie Powell also had three hits, two RBIs and two runs scored for the Tigers.

Morgan State kept the game close early, but was unable to keep pace with the Towson offense.

Facing a 3-0 deficit, Morgan State's Claudette Smith hit a three-run homer to tie the game at 3-3 in the top of the third inning.

But in the bottom half of the frame, the Tigers responded with five runs. The first five batters of the inning all reached base as Towson applied consistent pressure on the Morgan State pitching staff. South and Powell each had RBI singles, while Hepner drew a bases loaded walk to highlight the inning.

The Tigers were then staked to an 8-3 lead and never looked back. Hepner's walkoff RBI doubnle in the sixth inning ended the game due to the run rule.

Through 17 games this season, Hepner (.463), South (.425) and Yarbrough (.413) all have batting averages above .400,

McCormick has 28 RBIs, while Hepner has 24. The duo is tied for the team lead with five homers.

Towson completes its short stay at home on Wednesday, facing UMBC at 2 p.m.