NEW ORLEANS — Xavier University of Louisiana had opportunities to win — leads of 4-3 through five innings of the first game and 2-1 through four innings of the second game — but NAIA No. 16 William Carey rallied for 12-5 and 8-4 softball victories Tuesday.
        It was opening day for both teams.
        The Gold Nuggets' Tamia Washington was 5-for-7 in the doubleheader with two runs, two stolen bases and XULA's only extra-base hit, a double. Teammates Mecolett Bradley and Alison Curlin had three hits apiece; Bradley had three RBIs, and Curlin scored three times.
        For William Carey, Rachel Rodriguez reached base safely seven times, including a pair of doubles, and Dee Dee West had five RBIs.
        This is XULA's second season of intercollegiate competition.
        The Gold Nuggets will play twice Saturday and twice Sunday against NCAA Division I HBCUs in a tournament at Vicksburg, Miss. XULA's first game in that event will start at 3:30 p.m. Saturday against Alcorn State.