MCMINNVILLE, Ore. — The Pacific Lutheran University softball team dropped an 8-0 decision to the host No. 5 nationally ranked Linfield University in five innings Friday morning during Game three of the NCAA McMinnville Regional at Del Smith Stadium.
The Lutes move to 35-11 overall and will continue postseason play later Friday in the NCAA Regional elimination bracket. Pacific Lutheran will face the winner of Marymount (Va.) and Transylvania in Game 5 at 4 PM.
Pacific Lutheran was limited to one hit offensively against Linfield starter Tyler McNeley, who struck out nine across five shutout innings. Addy Meyers recorded the lone hit for the Lutes, finishing 1-for-2 at the plate.
PLU threatened early after Meyers singled to open the second inning, but the Wildcats escaped the frame without damage.
Paige Wilson took the loss in the circle, allowing eight runs on 10 hits while striking out two over 4 1/3 innings. Wilson now sits at 21-5 overall on the season.
Linfield opened the scoring with two runs in the second inning before breaking the game open with four runs in the fourth. Breanna Bartek paced the Wildcats offensively with two hits and three RBIs, while Meara Sain added a double and RBI.
Despite the setback, the Lutes remain alive in the NCAA Regional and will look to bounce back Friday afternoon with a chance to continue their postseason run.
