Ewing, NJ – Kean University Cayleen Rizzo drove in the go-ahead run during a three-run fifth inning as the 13^th-ranked Cougars knocked off Montclair State 6-3 in Game 8 of the NJAC Softball Championship at The College of New Jersey on Saturday.

Centerfielder Katie Debbie had three hits and an RBI as the Cougars (36-6) eliminated MSU and advance to face Rowan University in an elimination game later today. Senior SAM DICLEMENTI belted a three-run homer run for the Red Hawks, who finished their season at 29-14.

Kean grabbed a 1-0 lead in the top of the first inning as pitcher Jackie Riley helped her own cause with a sacrifice fly that scored Olivia Zengel. Montclair State would take the lead in the fourth as KAYLEE POWERS opened the inning with a single and BLAKE SAPERSTEIN walked. Following a pair of outs, DiClementi blasted a three-run homer over the centerfield fence putting the Red Hawks up 3-1.

The Cougars answered with two runs in the bottom of the inning knotting the game at 3-3. Debbie singled down the left field line for one run and Zengel walked with the bases loaded. Kean then put up three runs the following inning. Rizo brought in the first with a base hit and Erin Hollyfield followed with a double for a 5-3 advantage. NJAC Player of the Year Caroline Ratti lofted a sacrifice fly for the final run.

Riley made that stand up as she went on for the complete-game victory. Riley (16-1) allowed seven hits, striking out three and walking three. Junior NICOLE MAJEWSKI took the loss as she finished the year at 9-5.

Powers finished 3-for-4 for Montclair State.