SAN JOSE, Calif. - Reina Zermeno had a pair of hits with a triple and a run scored to lead San José State softball (1-6, 0-0 MW) in a 2-1 loss to Illinois State (4-4, 0-0 MVC) and an 8-1 loss to UCSB (2-7, 0-0 Big West) in the first day of the SVC Classic I on Friday from Spartan Softball Stadium.
Game 1: UCSB 8, San José State 1
The Spartans started strong against the Gauchos but could not keep pace with a 13-hit attack.
SJSU jumped ahead immediately in the first inning. Zermeno led off with a triple to right-center and was promptly driven home by an RBI single by Taylor Chillingworth.
Despite a multi-hit game from Shay McDowell, including a double, the Spartans were unable to capitalize on scoring opportunities, leaving seven runners on base.
Key Performers:
- Zermeno: 1-for-4, 3B, R
- Chillingworth: 2-for-4, RBI
- McDowell: 2-for-3, 2B
Game 2: Illinois State 2, San José State 1
In an afternoon finale matchup defined by elite pitching, the Spartans fell just short in a 2-1 loss to the Redbirds.
Norah Coulsell delivered a gritty performance in the circle, tossing a complete game and allowing only one earned run while striking out a career-high four. The Spartans' defense, however, was tested early when an opening-inning error allowed Illinois State to take a 1-0 lead.
San José State’s offense found life in the fourth inning. Ahmiya Noriega ignited the rally with a sharp single, followed by a clutch RBI triple from Samantha Blachly, tying the score at 1-1. Unfortunately, the Redbirds reclaimed the lead in the next frame and held on behind Paige McLeod’s winning effort.
Key Performers:
- Blachly: 1-for-3, 3B, RBI
- Noriega: 2-for-3, R
- Coulsell: 7.0 IP, 5 H, 1 ER, 4 K
UP NEXT: The Spartans host the second day of the Silicon Valley Classic I on Saturday at Spartan Softball Stadium, and tickets are available here.
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