LOGAN, Utah – Utah State softball (23-17, 8-3 MW) fell in the first of three games this weekend against Fresno State Friday afternoon at LaRee and LeGrand Johnson Field, losing 7-3.
 
The Bulldogs got off to an early advantage after a fielding error led to an unearned run in the top of the first, but the lead was short-lived as the Aggies used a two-run blast over the left field fence by junior catcher/infielder Kaylie Erickson to take a 2-1 lead. This was Erickson's eighth home run of the season, and the ninth of her career. 
 
After a hitless third for both sides, Utah State tacked onto its lead with another home run in the bottom of the fourth. This time, it was a solo shot by junior catcher Grace Matej to right field, her sixth homer of the year and the 14th of her career. With two outs in the top of the fifth, the Bulldogs countered, coupling a double with a home run to even the score at 3-apiece. 
 
Fresno State pulled ahead in the sixth inning, scoring on a sacrifice fly, before using a three-run home run in the top of the seventh to gain separation and secure the win. 
 
Junior right-hander Emmalyn Brinka went the full seven innings in the circle for Utah State, allowing 10 hits and six earned runs. 
 
The Aggies were held to a 4-for-25 (.160) showing at the plate, with Erickson being the lone USU player to record multiple hits as she went 2-for-3 with two RBIs and a run scored. 
 
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Utah State (23-17, 8-3 MW) will now remain at home for part two of the three-game conference series versus Fresno State at LaRee and LeGrand Johnson Field, as the Aggies host the Bulldogs tomorrow at noon.
 
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.
 
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