March 25, 2005

Box Score

BLACKSBURG, Va. - The Maryland softball team dropped its conference opener Friday afternoon, falling to Virginia Tech 5-0 at Tech Softball Park. Hokie pitcher Angela Tincher no-hit the Terrapins in Virginia Tech's first-ever Atlantic Coast Conference game, as Maryland's record went to 10-10 (0-1 ACC) and the Hokies improved to 28-6 (1-0 ACC). Maryland and Tech continue the three-game weekend series with a noon doubleheader Saturday in Blacksburg.

Tincher (14-2) was nearly flawless for the Hokies, as she struck out 16 Terrapin batters and gave up one walk and no hits.

With Virginia Tech leading 3-0, Maryland's Keri Lounge reached base in the top of the fifth, earning her fifth walk of the year. Freshman Whitney Reigel entered the game to pinch run for Lounge, but was out at second base on the next play - a fielder's choice off of Nikki Smith's bat. With Smith at first base and one out, the Terrapins' next two batters were retired by Tincher to end the inning and preserve the Hokie lead.

Virginia Tech added two more runs in the bottom of the sixth inning for the 5-0 margin.

Abbey Welch started in the circle for Maryland and fell to 5-4 on the year. Crystal Crews relieved Welch in the bottom of the fourth inning and finished the game for Maryland. Crews gave up three hits and struck out three batters.

Virginia Tech (28-6) continued its best start in school history and got its first-ever ACC win along with its first-ever win over Maryland. The all-time series is now 4-1 in Maryland's favor.

Maryland and Virginia Tech conclude the three-game series Saturday with a doubleheader. First pitch of game one is slated to begin at noon at Tech Softball Park. Livestats and audio can be accessed through www.hokiesports.com.