Virginia Falls to Western Michigan 3-0

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TEMPE, Ariz. The Virginia softball team wrapped up play at the Kajikawa Classic Sunday, falling to Western Michigan 3-0. It was very much a defensive game, as the Cavaliers were limited to one hit. The Broncos finished with just two hits.

Freshman pitcher Allee Rife made her first start in the circle for the Orange and Blue, going six innings, allowing three runs and five walks while fanning two.

Western Michigan scored two runs in the bottom of the second inning to take an early lead. With one out, three consecutive walks loaded the bases. A ground ball back to Rife allowed for the force at home, but first-year catcher Alison Pittman overthrew the toss to first and two runners scored.

The Broncos (3-2) added to their lead in the bottom of the fifth on a solo shot by Lexi Jager. Jager’s home run was the first hit of the game for either team.

Virginia’s Sarah Tacke hit a single up the middle to end Western Michigan’s no hitter with two outs in the top of the seventh. A Bronco error allowed the next hitter, rookie Lauren McCaskey, to get on base, but the Cavaliers failed to score for the first time in five games.

The Cavaliers return to action next weekend at the Tennessee Classic in Knoxville, Tenn. Virginia will take on Louisiana-Monroe at 2 p.m. and the host Lady Vols at 4 p.m. Friday.