Softball returned to Bobcat Softball Stadium in a battle between the Texas State Bobcats (4-2) and the 18th ranked Clemson Tigers (4-3) on Thursday night as the Bobcats came out on top, winning 4-0.

Junior starting pitcher Madison Azua dominated in the circle, pitching a complete game shutout, finishing the game with seven strikeouts and allowing seven hits and two walks.

“I thought Madi Azua threw the heck out of it,” Texas State head coach Ricci Woodard said. “She threw the best game I have seen her throw all around.”

The Bobcats struck first and took a lead early as senior first basemen Aiyana Coleman singled to drive home senior designated player Karmyn Bass to put the Bobcats up 1-0 in the 1st.

Senior second basemen Katarina Zarate also had a productive outing tonight during her three at-bats, where she went 2-3, with a two RBI single and a solo home run into left field to put the Bobcats up 4-0.

“I’m just trusting the work that I do in practice, just trying to keep it simple and not trying to be someone I’m not,” Zarate said.

Another Bobcat on a roll was senior outfielder Keely Williams, continuing her productive start to the season with a 3-4 outing against the Tigers, scoring one run and assisting with an out by throwing out a Clemson runner at second.

The Bobcats will look to continue their success this weekend in the States Up Invitational as the tournament hosts when they return to the diamond to take on Wichita State and BYU.

The Bobcats’ first game on Friday is set for 12:15 p.m. against Wichita State, with BYU to follow at 2:45 p.m. at Bobcat Softball Stadium. These games will be available to stream on ESPN+.