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	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	R	H	E
Virginia Tech (7-2)	0	1	0	0	1	1	0	3	3	2
(2) Alabama (6-0)	0	4	0	0	2	1	X	7	7	4
Auburn, AL - 188 Box Score

AUBURN, Ala. - It was a tall task put in front of the Hokies, but the Virginia Tech softball team more than held its own against No. 2 Alabama Saturday afternoon at the ACC/Big 12/SEC Challenge, but ultimately fell to the Crimson Tide 7-3.

The Hokies took a lead in the second inning when Betty Rose scored on a wild pitch. The Crimson Tide, a multiple-time participant in the WCWS, responded with four runs in the bottom half of the inning to take control.

In the fifth inning, Lauren Gaskill came home to score on an error, but Alabama put two runs on the board in the bottom half of its inning with a pinch-hit, two-run home run. In the sixth inning, Kelsey Mericka reached on an error and came home to score on Logan Spaw’s single to right field. Alabama plated on last run on a sac fly in the sixth to make it 7-3.

Tech had just three hits - one apiece from Courtney Liddle, Mericka and Spaw - but got on the base paths several other ways. Lauren Gaskill drew two walks, stole two bases and was hit by a pitch while Betty Rose also drew a walk and Liddle was also hit by a pitch. The Hokies also forced the action by putting the ball in play, forcing four Alabama errors.

Jasmin Harrell (L, 4-1) went the distance, allowing seven runs on seven hits with three strikeouts. She allowed three walks and hit two batters, four of which scored.

Tech (7-2) will try to get back into the winning ledger on Sunday against Auburn. That game is scheduled to start at 11:30 a.m. local time, weather pending

For updates on Virginia Tech softball, follow the Hokies on Twitter (@VT_Softball).