TAMPA, April 20, 2016 – The No. 20/23 USF softball team proved they could hang on with the best of the best, dropping a 3-0 decision to the No. 1 Florida Gators. The Bulls dropped to 39-11 on the season, while Florida improved to 42-3.

The last time the two teams met, Florida scored in every inning en route to an 11-1 run-rule victory in Tampa. This time around, the Bulls would hold the Gators scoreless in five of the six innings.

After four scoreless innings, the Gators took a 3-0 lead in the fifth on a solo home run from Amanda Lorenz, and a two-RBI double from Nicole DeWitt. The three runs were the first runs given up by the Bulls pitching staff in 41.2 innings, spanning six games.

USF loaded the bases in the first inning without a hit, but were unable to plate a run. Kristen Wyckoff led off the game with a four-pitch walk and moved to second on a fielder's choice from Lauren Evans. With just one out, Lee Ann Spivey reached on an error by Florida's shortstop to load the bases. However, Florida starter Kelly Barnhill would get a strikeout and groundout to end the threat.

In the fourth, the Bulls would put two on base thanks to a pair of singles, but would once again be held off the board.

Despite giving up three runs, Erica Nunn (22-7) had arguably one of her best career outings against Florida. She went a career-best 4.2 innings against the Gators, striking out six and giving up just five hits. In the last 57 innings, the pitching trio of Nunn, Susan Wysocki and Cheyenne Eggens has allowed just four runs.

The Bulls will end their seven-game road trip with a three-game series at Tulsa. The Bulls and Golden Hurricane will face off April 22-24 in USF's last conference road series of the season.

Be sure to follow USF softball on social media (Twitter / Facebook / Instagram) and visit GoUSFBulls.com for the most up-to-date information. Get your season tickets and mini plans HERE. The USF softball program has been one of the most successful on campus, making 12 NCAA tournament appearances, including a trip to the Women's College World Series in 2012.

- #GoBulls –