WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. – Despite a two run seventh-inning rally, the Purdue softball team fell in its Big Ten series opener against Wisconsin, 4-2, on Friday night at Bittinger Stadium
With the loss, the Boilermakers fall to 30-21 overall and 6-12 in league play, while Wisconsin improves to 34-10 overall and 11-7 in the Big Ten.
After a pitcher's duel kept the game scoreless for the first three innings, the Badgers struck first with a solo home run by Jordan Little in the bottom of the fourth.
Wisconsin added to its lead with four runs on three hits and a Boilermaker miscue in the top of the seventh.
Purdue responded with a rally in the bottom of the frame, breaking through with a two-RBI single up the middle from senior Kaitlynn Moody. The veteran's hit plated senior Lexi Huffman and freshman Kasey Wilhoit, who reached on a hit-by-pitch and a walk, respectively.
With the tying run on first base, the Boilermaker comeback fell short with a pop up to Wisconsin's pitcher Kaitlyn Menz.
Overall, Purdue recorded four hits to Wisconsin's five, with four different Boilermakers tallying a hit in the contest.
Senior Maddie Damon (1-3) took the loss after giving up three earned runs on four hits and five walks, while striking out a career-best eight batters in 6.1 innings of work.
The Boilermakers and the Badgers continue the series with an 11 a.m. game on Saturday at Bittinger Stadium.