The Iowa State softball team traveled to Lincoln, Nebraska, Wednesday as they had a head-to-head matchup against the Nebraska Cornhuskers. 

They failed to get the win, falling to Nebraska by a score of 3-1, bringing their overall record to 11-14.

Iowa State only scores a single run

The Cyclones came away with one run against a Cornhuskers team that now improves to 20-9 on the season. Iowa State picked up five hits in the game while also drawing five walks. 

They could not take out Nebraska’s starter all game, as they faced the same pitcher all game long. 

A small rally started to shape in the top of the seventh inning in a last-ditch effort, but the Cyclones couldn’t cash in as they took another loss.

Three-run homer late by Nebraska seals the deal

Iowa State held a 1-0 lead throughout the majority of the game.

Junior pitcher Saya Swain went four and two-thirds innings pitched while only allowing three hits. Freshman pitcher Jaiden Ralston came in for relief of Swain as she looked to blank Nebraska’s offense to give the Cyclones the win. 

The duo of Swain and Jaiden Ralston pitched lights out in the last series in Hawaii. However, the two couldn’t find the same success against Nebraska.

Trouble began in the bottom of the sixth inning as Ralston gave up two straight singles before giving up a three-run home run. Nebraska took a 3-1 lead late in the game that eventually led to a win for the Cornhuskers.

Biggest series of the season up next

The Cyclones desperately needed the win against Nebraska, as they now have trouble waiting for them next. 

Iowa State will have its home opener on Friday against the No. 1 Oklahoma Sooners who have been dominating all season long with a 20-1 record. The teams will play once Friday and then finish up Saturday with a doubleheader.