ABILENE, Texas – The McMurry University softball team completed its three-game series versus the No. 3-ranked team in the nation for NCAA Division III – the University of Texas-Tyler – with an 8-0 loss at Red Bud Park. The War Hawks (2-6, 0-3 ASC) were swept in the American Southwest Conference opening series by the Patriots (5-0, 3-0 ASC).
 
As the young McMurry team got its first taste of nationally-ranked competition, the visiting UTT squad took control of the game early and never looked back.  The Patriots got to McM pitcher Cheyenne West (0-3) for seven runs - just three were earned - during her 3.0 innings of work, in run-ruling McMurry after five innings. The War Hawks committed three errors in the game.
 
The War Hawks did not chalk up their first hit until the two out in the bottom of the third. Leadoff batter Ashley McClellan smashed a high-hopper into the ground and, by the time UTT shortstop Hannah Moore got to the ball, McClellan was safe at first. 
 
In all, the War Hawks had three hits (compared to eight by the Patriots).  McM's other hits, both singles, came in the fourth inning. Firstbaseman Rachel Ripley led off with a single to deep left and, one out later, Sumer Quiroga also singled to left. UTT then called on Colleen Bentke to pitch and she induced a double-play grounder to end McM's threat.
 
The Patriots added a single run in the top of the fifth off of McM reliever Crystal Peebles to provide the eight-run cushion.
 
McClellan and Quiroga each went 1-for-2 in the game.  Ripley was 1-for-1 with a walk.
 
McMurry will next play a non-conference doubleheader at Schreiner University on Saturday (Feb. 24) at Schreiner University.   First pitch is slated for 12 p.m. in Kerrville.