HEMPSTEAD, NY -  The Iona College softball team attempted a valiant comeback, but fell short scoring five runs in the seventh in dropping a 7-6 non-conference game against Hofstra on Tuesday afternoon. 

Junior CF Jodi Petersen led the Gaels with four runs batted in, as she hit a two-out grand slam in the seventh inning. Senior 3B Alyssa Maiese also went yard in the fourth inning, nailing a drive over the left field wall. 

Senior RHP Sarah Jackson got the nod in the circle and pitched three innings allowing two runs on five hits with four strike outs. Maiese relieved Jackson and pitched the remaining three innings, but allowed five runs on five hits. 

Iona's other run also came in the seventh innings, as rookie IF Angie Nieves singled up the middle and scored senior 1B Allyssa James who doubled to center earlier in the inning. 

Hofstra was led by Tessa Ziemba with three hits and two RBI. Becca Bigler also added two hits and a pair of runs, as the Pride scored two runs in the first and four in the fourth.  Erin Wade surrendered all six Iona runs with just two earned for the victory. Olivia Galati got the save facing just one batter. 

Iona will make their 2012 home debut on Wednesday afternoon as they host Stony Brook at 2:30 p.m.