HOUSTON, Texas – Lamar University stranded 10 runners on base but couldn't get a run across as it fell, 5-0, to Houston Tuesday evening at Cougar Softball Field.
 
The Cardinals ended the game with a single each from Cala Wilson and Cimara-lei Wessling, but also drew eight walks, including three from Isabella Flores. Starting pitcher Mallory Pitre lasted two-thirds of an inning and allowed three runs to take the loss. Ava Prejean (5.1 innings) conceded two runs on five hits and struck out a batter.
 
The Cougars broke out for three runs in the bottom of the first. LU put together a second-inning, two-out rally before having it killed off by a strikeout. Houston hit a solo shot in its half of the second and loaded the bases before Prejean got out of the jam.   
 
LU's best chances to score came in both the fourth and fifth innings by loading the bases each time. While the Cougars' defense made two plays in the fourth, the pitching picked up a pair of strikeouts in the fifth to keep LU out of the run column. Houston extended its lead to 5-0 and completed the shutout by retiring the last six Cardinal hitters.
 
The Cardinals will resume Southland Conference play this weekend by hosting Stephen F. Austin at the LU Softball Complex. Friday's doubleheader begins at 2 p.m., while Saturday will see the first pitch thrown at noon. All three games will be streamed on ESPN+.

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