SANTA CLARA, Calif. – Utah State softball wrapped up play at the Silicon Valley Classic Sunday, falling to Northern Colorado, 9-5, in a back-and-forth contest.

Sophomore outfielder Stephanie Reed led the Utah State offense, as she was a perfect 4-for-4 at the plate. Her four hits tie the program single-game record, and she is the second Aggie to match that record this season. 

USU ends the weekend with a 6-9 overall record. 

Northern Colorado jumped out to an early lead Sunday, scoring four runs in the bottom of the first inning. Utah State wasn't able to answer until the top of the third, but did so convincingly, scoring five runs in the inning. Junior outfielder Riley Plogger was first on base, reaching on a Northern Colorado error. Reed followed with a single to center field and both runners advanced on a wild pitch. Freshman shortstop Lexi Orozco then drew a walk to load the bases, where Plogger was able to score on a groundout. Junior third baseman Erin Kuba then brought Reed home on a single, while a home run from sophomore designated player Kennedy Hira cleared the bases to put the Aggies up, 5-4. 

Utah State's lead didn't last long, as the Bears came back with a grand slam in the bottom of the fourth. The Aggies got caught in two double plays by the Northern Colorado defense in the game, and added just three additional hits in the final four innings. The Bears brought in one last run in the bottom of the sixth, when a triple scored a runner from second base. 

In all, Utah State had 10 hits to Northern Colorado's six, while each team had one error. The Aggies utilized all three active pitchers in the game, with freshman Chloe Nightingale making the start. Together the three walked five batters and did not strike any out.

Utah State's tournament season continues next weekend at the Red Desert Classic in St. George, Utah. The Aggies will take on Southern Utah and Saint Mary's on Saturday, March 2, at noon and 2:30 p.m., respectively. Play will continue on Sunday, March 3, when the team takes on Utah Valley at 10 a.m., and CSU Bakersfield at 12:30 p.m.

Fans can follow the Aggie softball program on Twitter, @USUSoftball, on Facebook at /USUSoftball or on Instagram, @ususoftball. Aggie fans can also follow the Utah State athletic program on Twitter, @USUAthletics, Facebook at /USUAthletics and on Instagram, @USUAthletics.