Columbia, S.C. — No. 12 South Carolina came up short in a top-20 showdown Saturday night, falling 8–5 to No. 19 Virginia Tech on the third day of the Gamecock Invitational at Carolina Softball Stadium.
The Gamecocks (1–2) were led offensively by Tori Ensley and Tate Davis, who each recorded two hits. Freshman Kai Byars delivered a breakout performance, driving in three runs highlighted by the first home run of her collegiate career.
South Carolina struck first in the opening inning. Quincee Lilio sparked the offense with a leadoff single before Davis ripped an RBI double to put the Gamecocks on the board.
The Gamecocks extended their advantage in the second inning. Lexi Winters opened the frame with a double and Shae Anderson drew a walk, setting the stage for Byars. After working the count, the freshman sent a 7th-pitch offering over the fence in left-center field for a three-run homer, giving Carolina an early cushion.
Virginia Tech answered decisively in the top of the third, erupting for five runs that included two home runs to seize control of the game. The Hokies added to their lead with two more runs in the fifth inning and another in the seventh.
South Carolina threatened in the bottom of the fifth by loading the bases but was unable to capitalize. The Gamecocks scratched across a run in the sixth when Ensley lined a double to left-center field, allowing Davis to score all the way from first base.
Josey Marron (1–1) was charged with the loss after surrendering one earned run over 1 1/3 innings in relief. Julie Kelley made her season debut in the circle and retired the lone batter she faced.
South Carolina closes out the Gamecock Invitational on Sunday with a doubleheader against Binghamton and Winthrop, beginning at 12:30 p.m.
