WILLIAMSBURG, Ky.--A sixth-inning surge proved too much to overcome as Cumberland dropped the series finale to No. 4-ranked Cumberlands, 6-1, on Sunday afternoon at the UC Softball Complex.

The Phoenix (13-22) were held in check through five innings before Abby Chappell broke through with a solo home run in the sixth, cutting the deficit to 2-1. Chappell finished 2-for-3 at the plate and accounted for half of Cumberland's hits in the contest.

The Patriots (32-6) responded immediately in the bottom of the sixth, plating four runs to put the game out of reach. An RBI single by Ryann Livingston started the rally, followed by a throwing error that brought in two more. A sacrifice fly from Amber Gainer capped off the inning and gave Cumberlands the 6-1 lead.

Cumberland starter Madison Lancaster (5-7) pitched 3.1 innings, allowing two runs on five hits before giving way to Madison Croxford, who surrendered four runs—three earned—across the final 2.2 innings.

Cumberlands' ace Lindsey Shope (16-2) was dominant in the circle, tossing a complete game with four strikeouts and no walks, limiting the Phoenix to just four hits.

The Phoenix will play again next weekend at home against Georgetown. Saturday is slated for senior day.