ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – Utah State softball (19-34, 7-17 MW) dropped part two of a three-game series against New Mexico Friday afternoon at Lobo Softball Field in Albuquerque, falling 11-3 in a five-inning contest.

For the second time this series, the Aggies were tasked from playing from behind after allowing a big first inning. The Lobos scored five runs in the first to take early command. USU got on the board in the third inning with an RBI single from senior infielder Alex Bunton to score junior outfielder Keely Goushá from second. The Aggies left the bases loaded before New Mexico answered with a run of its own in the bottom of the inning. 

In the fourth, Utah State put two more runs on the board. A single down the left field line by Goushá scored freshman infielder Haylee Lopez, then a double to center field by sophomore outfielder Faith Kroening brought Goushá home for USU's final run of the day. The Lobos then scored two in the fourth and three in the fifth to secure the run-rule victory. 

Utah State totaled eight hits to New Mexico's 15. Seven different USU players recorded hits, led by Goushá's team-best 2-for-2 performance at the plate. 

Senior right-hander Rylie Pindel started the game in the circle for the Aggies, and was relieved after 0.2 innings by freshman Jordyn Lish, who took the next 2.1 innings. Senior Sydney Saldaña pitched the final 1.1 innings for USU. 

UP NEXT
Utah State (19-34, 7-17 MW) will wrap up its series against New Mexico with the final game of its season tomorrow at 12 p.m., in Albuquerque. The game will be streamed on Mountain West Network. 

For more information on the Utah State softball program, follow the Aggies on Twitter at @USUSoftball, on Facebook at USUSoftball and on Instagram at ususoftball.

- USU -