9:46 p.m., April 17, 2007--The University of Delaware softball team defeated Villanova University 6-1 in the front end of a doubleheader on Tuesday at Delaware Field but had to settle for a 2-2 in the nightcap, which was called after seven innings because of darkness.

The Fightin' Blue Hens are now 14-16-2 overall. They will return to action with a doubleheader at the University of Maryland Baltimore County at 2:30 p.m., Wednesday, April 18, and then will play a weekend Colonial Athletic Association series at Hofstra University.

In the opener, UD senior pitcher Carolynn Sloat went the distance, scattering five hits and striking out three batters, for her eighth win of the season.

The Hens broke on top with four runs in the third inning, with the big hit a three-run home run by third baseman Michelle Plant, who finished the game with four runs batted in. Second baseman Allison Borchers had two hits and scored two runs and center fielder Katie Lee had a triple and scored a pair of runs.

In the second game, UD starter Samantha Shawn worked seven innings and gave up just one earned run. Shortstop Kim Ovittore had two hits, including a double, and scored two runs.