EL PASO, Texas – UTEP softball fell 8-1 to defending Conference USA champion Liberty on Thursday night at Helen of Troy Field to open the weekend series.
The Miners move to 9-17 overall and 1-6 in CUSA play, while the Lady Flames improve to 12-15 and 5-2 in league action.
Liberty struck early with a four-run second inning to take control. An RBI single by Roberts opened the scoring before Whatley delivered a two-run double to left center. Fox followed with an RBI single to cap the frame and give Liberty a 4-0 lead.
UTEP answered in the bottom of the third when Iliana Munoz launched a solo home run to left field, trimming the deficit to 4-1.
Liberty extended its lead in the fifth on a two-run home run by Nash, then added two more runs in the sixth inning on a solo shot by Lee and a sacrifice fly by Strickland to seal the 8-1 final.
Liberty outhit UTEP, 11-4, in the contest, while both teams were flawless defensively with zero errors committed. Serenity Jacoway, Iliana Munoz, Camrynn Guthrie and Aaliyah Betancourt each recorded a hit for the Miners. Munoz also drew two walks, while Kenna Carranza and Halle Hogan each added a free pass. Bri Garcia contributed with a sacrifice hit.
Tatyana Vega earned the start in the circle for UTEP and was charged with the loss, moving to 8-7 on the season. Ryann Presswood provided 4.0 innings of relief, while Hannah Jones closed out the game and struck out two batters.
On Deck
UTEP and Liberty will continue the series on Friday, March 20, with first pitch set for 6 p.m. MDT. The game will be streamed on ESPN+.
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