COLUMBUS, Ohio – Illinois softball dropped the Big Ten series opener against Ohio State, 3-1, at Buckeye Field on Friday night.
The Fighting Illini moved to 19-27 overall and 5-12 in league play. Ohio State improved 28-17 overall and 9-9 against conference opponents.
In the circle, Tori McQueen tossed a complete game, falling to 11-13 on the year. The southpaw allowed three runs on six hits and fanned six Buckeye batters.
Offensively, Kelly Ryono led the way with a 2-4 performance, including an RBI. Megan Ward and Serena Starks each went 1-for-3 at the dish.
How it happened
The Fighting Illini struck first in the top of the second, with a rally beginning with a single by Ward. With a hit batter putting runners on first and second with two outs, Ryono logged an RBI single for the early 1-0 advantage.
However, the early edge was short lived with Ohio State tacking on a pair of runs in the bottom of the frame.
The bats went quiet in the fourth for both teams, but the Buckeyes extended their lead in the fifth, scoring on a solo home run.
Down to the final three outs, Starks started a late rally with a leadoff double. A fielder's choice and a walk loaded the bases with two away, but a pop out handed the Orange and Blue the 3-1 loss.
Up Next
The Fighting Illini ready for a rematch at Ohio State. First pitch on Saturday is slated for 1 p.m. on B1G+.
Notes
» Illinois wore navy jerseys, moving to 6-8 while donning those.
» The Illini moved to 13-27 against Ohio State
» The complete game by Tori McQueen was the 14th of the season for the pitcher.
» Kelly Ryono extended her hitting streak to nine games.
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