COLUMBIA, S.C. - The College of Charleston softball team dropped their season opener to South Carolina 8-0 Wednesday night in 6 innings of play.
Payton Lemire started the contest for the Cougars, striking out one in the first inning to strand two runners.
USC scored four in the second frame to take an early advantage. Caroline Conner entered the circle with two outs and two runners on but closed the inning without allowing a run. The rookie pitcher finished the game with one strikeout and two hits allowed in her first career appearance.
Brooke Tranum recorded her first career hit in the loss, while Shealyn Starks and Natalie Windham each added a single of their own.
The Cougars return home this weekend to host the Cougar Classic featuring Boston University, Canisius and Tennessee Tech. Charleston's first game is set for Friday at 3:00 p.m.