The Kent State softball team’s four-game winning streak ended yesterday at Penn State, as the Flashes left six runners on base in a 1-0 loss in the first game of a scheduled doubleheader. Game two was canceled because of rain.

Kent State (17-17) outhit the Nittany Lions 7-3 but couldn’t plate a runner. The Flashes fell behind in the second inning after Penn State freshman infielder Danee Collett walked and stole second base. Freshman infielder Lisa Akamine then singled to left field, driving Collett home.

“We just left too many runners on base,” Kent State coach Karen Linder said. “I think we were just missing a clutch hit with runners on base.”

With no run support, sophomore pitcher Markie Pozzuto pitched what Linder said was “probably Markie’s best performance since she’s been at Kent State.”

Pozzuto pitched six innings, allowing just three hits and striking out four batters. She started in place of junior Kylie Reynolds, the team’s usual starter.

“I felt really comfortable,” Pozzutto said. “The defense really helped me out.”

Reynolds has a minor leg injury and sat out yesterday’s game in order to be ready for weekend games against Eastern Michigan Friday and Central Michigan Saturday and Sunday.

“This was an opportunity to give her three days (of) rest in a row,” Linder said. “These are non-conference games, and right now our priority … is conference.”

Umpires called the second game after two innings. Penn State held a 3-0 lead at the time.

“I think it was going to be very difficult for us to finish the game,” Linder said. “I think, because it was a non-conference game, you don’t want to take any chances for hurting any kids.”

Contact principal sports reporter Chris Gates at [email protected].