Despite outhitting LMU, Cougars drop first conference game

LOS ANGELES – Despite outhitting Loyola Marymount 4 to 3, the BYU softball team dropped its first conference game 2-0 on Friday afternoon at Smith Field.

"It was a tough loss," BYU head coach Gordon Eakin said. "We will look to bounce back tomorrow."

Game Highlights

• The Cougars (14-19, 0-1 WCC) outhit the Lions 4 to 3 but were unable to tally a run in the game
• Arissa Paulson pitched a complete game tallying the loss while only recording two earned runs

Player Highlights

• Emilee Erickson: 2-3
• Libby Sugg: 1-2, 2B
• Arissa Paulson: L (6-7), 6.0 IP, 3H, 2R

BYU vs. LMU Game 1 Box

LMU (24-14, 1-0 WCC) scored the only runs of the game in the bottom of the fourth inning. The Lions drew a walk before their cleanup batter sent a ball over the left field wall for a two-run home run and a 2-0 lead. With no outs, BYU pitcher Arissa Paulson managed a double play, diving to catch a bunt and then threw the ball to first base to Erin Miklus who tagged out the runner.

In the top of the sixth, Erickson singled as the ball bounced over the pitcher's head. Sugg drew a walk to get BYU into scoring position. But, both runners were left stranded as the Cougars ended the inning with a strikeout.

The Cougars were unable to overcome the Lions' two run lead in the top of the seventh, losing their first conference game of the season 2-0.

BYU finishes out conference opening weekend with a doubleheader on Saturday, March 6. Both games will be played at Smith Field in Los Angeles with the first game beginning at 12 p.m. and the second at 2:30 p.m. PT. A live stream and live stats will be available on the schedule page.