PHOENIX, Ariz. – The University of the Incarnate Word softball program dropped an eight-inning, 1-0 matchup against Colorado State University (CSU) in the final game of the Lopes Up Classic. 

Natalie Myers led the Cardinals in the circle for six innings, registering four strikeouts and just one walk. Aaliyah Garcia entered the circle in the top of the seventh frame. 

The Rams were able to load the bases in the top of the seventh with two outs. However, right fielder, Savannah Behabetz threw out the runner at home to end the inning and keep the game scoreless heading to the bottom of the seventh.

Neither team was able to capitalize, pushing the game to extra innings. With a runner placed on second base due to tournament formatting, CSU knocked a double to right field to move ahead 1-0. 

The Cardinals went into the bottom of the eighth ready to capitalize. With Teanna Lucio on second base, Behabetz placed a perfect sacrifice bunt to move Lucio to third base. UIW could not execute on the opportunity and the Rams secured the 1-0 victory. 

UP NEXT  

The Cardinals travel to El Paso, Texas, for their first three-game series of the season against the University of Texas at El Paso. A doubleheader is scheduled for Saturday, March 5, at noon CT. The series will conclude on Sunday, March 6. 

FOLLOW ALONG  

For the most up-to-date information on UIW Athletics, visit uiwcardinals.com, follow the Cardinals on Twitter @UIWAthletics, and like UIW Athletics on Facebook.   

Follow the team on Twitter @UIWSoftball and Instagram @uiwsoftball. 

--UIW CARDINALS--