LAS VEGAS, Nevada – Utah State softball (19-13, 3-4 MW) dropped its first contest of a three-game series against UNLV, falling 7-3 Thursday evening in Las Vegas. 
 
The Aggies got on the board first in this one, striking in the first inning. Senior outfielder Ali Ashner singled, then made her way to second on a passed ball, where she remained until a single by sophomore infielder Alex Bunton brought her home. Utah State remained on top until a five-run inning by the Rebels in the third shifted the momentum to the hosts. A solo home run, followed by a two-RBI triple, an error and a single made things 5-1 for UNLV.
 
Utah State was able to inch closer in the fourth when a solo shot by junior infielder Giselle Gonzalez cleared the center field fence, her seventh home run of the season. 
 
The first two pitches of the sixth inning resulted in hits for the Aggies as sophomore catcher Grace Matej and Bunton each singled, Matej eventually coming home on a single by Gonzalez to narrow the gap to 5-3, but that's as close as USU would get. UNLV tacked on two more runs in the top of the sixth to extend its lead and ensure the win. 
 
Three Aggies recorded a pair of hits, Bunton and Gonzalez each going 2-for-3 at the plate while Matej went 2-for-4. 
 
In the circle, senior Jessica Stewart started the game and was given the loss after pitching 2.2 innings, allowing six hits and four earned runs. She was replaced in the third by sophomore Tess Bumiller, who took the Aggies the final 3.1 innings with three hits and two earned runs. 
 
Up Next
Utah State (19-13, 3-4 MW) remains in Las Vegas for game two of a three-game series against UNLV tomorrow. First pitch is set for 5 p.m. (MT). 
 
For more information on the Utah State softball program, follow the Aggies on Twitter at @USUSoftball, on Facebook at USUSoftball and on Instagram at ususoftball.
 
- USU -