Texas softball drops series opener to Iowa State, 2-1

By Steve Lansdale

AUSTIN, Texas — The University of Texas softball team drew first blood Friday when shortstop Devon Tunning scored on a single by third baseman Celina Felix … but that was the end of the scoring for the Longhorns, who fell, 2-1, to Iowa State at Red & Charline McCombs Field.

The loss dropped UT’s record to 24-19 overall, and 3-7 in games against Big 12 teams. The Cyclones’ second win in 13 Big 12 games improved their season record to 17-31.

Each of the top five hitters in the Texas batting order had one of the team’s five hits, all of which were singles. UT starter Erica Wright scattered six hits over five innings; the loss dropped her record to 4-5. Brooke Bolinger took over in the sixth inning, retiring all six batters she faced over two innings.

After giving up the game’s first run, the Cyclones tied the score in the third inning when right fielder Kirsten Caudle tripled to right-center field and then scored on a sacrifice fly by second baseman Sami Williams.

ISU went ahead for good in the fourth when outfielder Kelsey McFarland homered to left.

The Longhorns and Cyclones will play the second game of the series at 1 p.m. in a game that will be broadcast on the Longhorn Network.