CEDAR FALLS, Iowa - The Drake University softball team fell to the No.1 ranked Alabama Crimson Tide, 8-2, Saturday afternoon at the Ramada UNI-Dome Classic.

Sophomore Rebekah Schmidt (Cottage Grove, Minn.) started in the circle for Drake (2-1) and lasted 1.2 innings allowing three runs on three hits and took the loss. Junior Jordan Gronewold (Carlisle, Iowa) relieved Schmidt in the second inning and pitched 2.1 innings allowing three runs on five hits and fanning four. Schmidt returned to the circle and in her second appearance pitched the remaining three innings, allowing two runs on five hits and striking out three. Schmidt's record moves to 1-1 on the young season.

Junior Amy Pierce (Olathe, Kan.) led the Bulldog offense, going two-for-four at the plate with a double. Junior Cortney Wood (Alburnett, Iowa) drove in the only Drake runs on a single in her only plate appearance in the fourth inning to cut into the Alabama lead, 6-2.

The Crimson Tide (3-0) took an early 3-0 advantage, as all-american, Jackie Traina, blasted a three-run home run to left field. Traina finished the game three-for-three with a home run and three RBI.

Drake will conclude action at the Ramada UNI-Dome Classic tomorrow with a doubleheader against Green Bay at 4 p.m. and UNI at 6 p.m.