TEMPE, Ariz. – The University of New Mexico softball team wrapped up the Kajikawa Classic on Sunday morning with a tight 1-0 victory over UC Riverside. The Lobos are now 4-1 on the season, which is the second-best start under head coach Erica Beach.
“This was a great test for the team,” said Beach. “It takes a lot of mental toughness to win a 1-0 ball game. This team stepped up to the challenge and fought hard against a good UC Riverside ball club.”
It was a pitcher’s duel through the first four innings before the Lobos put up the lone run of the game in the fifth inning. With one out, D’Andra DeFlora smacked a double down the left field line. She then scored on Jasmine Casados’ two-out single.
UC Riverside tried to respond in the bottom of the fifth as the Highlanders loaded the bases. But Tess McPherson and the Lobos’ defense worked their way out of the jam. The Highlanders ended up leaving all three on base.
The Highlanders threatened again in the seventh but McPherson forced the final batter of the game to fly out to left field.
At the plate, the Lobos pounded out seven hits, three coming from Casados. Casados was perfect in three at-bats. DeFlora finished 2-for-3 with a run scored and a walk. Kasey Halleen and Jade Gray each had a hit.
McPherson earned her third victory on the weekend, going the distance for the Lobos. She allowed four hits, while walking two and striking out three.
“Tess was incredible this weekend,” said Beach. “She got ahead in counts and hit her spots really well. Her change up was on point and she really led this team from the circle.
“Chelsea called great games the whole weekend for her and they worked together really well.”
The Lobos will head to Texas A&M’s tournament next weekend (Feb. 17-19) in College Station, Texas. The Lobos will go up against Stephen F. Austin, Missouri State and host Texas A&M. Click here for the tournament schedule.