Texas Tech University Athletics
Texas Tech Athletics
Fresno State
Red Raiders Fall to a Pair of Nationally Ranked Opponents
February 26, 2006 | Softball
Feb. 26, 2006
PALM SPRINGS, Calif. - The Texas Tech softball team wrapped up play at the Palm Springs Classic on Saturday as the Red Raiders were unable to overcome a pair of ranked foes, falling to No. 19 LSU 4-3, before dropping a 3-0 decision to No. 23 Fresno State in the day's nightcap.
The setbacks drop Tech's record to 5-12 overall this season and 2-4 at the tournament, while LSU improves to 15-2 and Fresno State ends the day 9-6.
Against the Tigers, the Red Raiders jumped out to an early lead with a pair of runs in the top of the second inning, one on a RBI sacrifice fly from shortstop Heather Parker and another on a LSU error.
In the top of the third, the Red Raiders were able to put another run on the scoreboard to extend their advantage to 3-0. After freshman Elizabeth Eimen reached base on a bunt single to lead off the inning, junior Brandy Moulin stepped to the plate and delivered with a RBI single to center field.
Moulin finished the game as Tech's leading hitting with a 2-for-3 mark at the plate.
LSU struck back in the bottom off the inning, plating four runs off Tech starter Sarah Losleben, who had been strong in the contest before the frame. The inning's biggest hit came on a three-run home run off the bat of Tiger second baseman Vanessa Soto.
Freshman pitcher Megan Shupp made the first appearance in the circle for Texas Tech, tossing 3 2/3 innings of scoreless relief of Losleben.
In the day's nightcap, the Red Raiders were unable to get rolling on offense, collected only two hits off Fresno State starting pitcher Robin Mackin, who improved her record this season to 8-3.
The Bulldogs were able to plate two runs in the bottom of the first inning on a controversial. After an apparent foul bunt attempt was ruled in play, an errant throw by Tech third baseman Natalie Kula sailed into the outfield allowing two runners to score.
In the bottom of the sixth inning, another close play went against the Red Raiders as second baseman Jennifer Bowers attempted to throw out a runner trying to score from third, but the Bulldog base runner was ruled safe after a close play at the plate with catcher Robyn Wike.
Texas Tech softball is back in action next weekend when it travels to Fullerton, Calif., to take part in the Worth Invitational Tournament.
