DECATUR, Ala. - Faulkner (43-11) used early scoring to solidify a 3-0 decision over Bethel (Tenn.) (14-35) in the Southern States Athletic Conference tournament opener here at the Wilson Morgan Softball Complex this afternoon.

Taylor Nelson and Hannahlee Harris each delivered an RBI single to spark scoring for the Lady Eagles in the second inning while the final run of the contest came on an error in the third.

Harris was 2-for-3 on the day.

Caitlin Perry (18-5) was brilliant from the circle for Faulkner. The junior right-hander struck out 11 batters while giving up just two hits in the complete game shutout.

The Lady Eagles take on the winner of the William Carey-Martin Methodist matchup Friday at noon.