CLEARWATER, Fla. -- The No. 8/9 Virginia Tech softball team closed out the TaxAct Clearwater Invitational with a win, defeating USF 4-1. Sophomore Emma Lemley had another double-digit strikeout appearance, punching out 15 South Florida hitters over seven innings of work to help power the Hokies.
In addition to her 15 strikeouts, Lemley (4-1) tossed seven innings, giving up one run and walking none for Virginia Tech (7-3).
In the batter's box, the Hokies were led by junior Cameron Fagan, who went 2-for-3 on the day with an RBI. Senior Kelsey Bennett compiled a standout day at the plate as well, going 1-for-2 with a walk and an RBI. Junior Emma Ritter also contributed for Virginia Tech, putting together one hit in four trips to the plate while adding an RBI.
HOW IT HAPPENED
The Hokies got on the scoreboard first, starting in the third inning. Virginia Tech scored twice, with one run coming across on Ritter's single and another on Fagan's single.
The Bulls cut the lead to 2-1 in the fifth before Virginia Tech pushed across two runs in the sixth inning, which brought the Hokies lead to 4-1. An RBI walk from Bennett and a sacrifice fly from Teagan Thrunk scored the final two runs. The score remained 4-1 for the rest of the game, as the defense shut down the Bulls for the win.
GAME NOTES
» Lemley struck out 15 Bulls hitters.
» Virginia Tech went 3-for-9 (.333) with runners in scoring position.
» Lemley faced 28 South Florida hitters in the game, allowing one ground balls and five fly balls while striking out 15.
» Fagan led the Hokies at the plate, going 2-for-3 with an RBI.
The Hokies continue their road trip next weekend, playing five games at the Lone Star State Invitational, including two against National Championship Runner-Up No. 9/13 Texas.
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