South Carolina's home opener spoiled after Hokies' ferocious comeback

Virginia Tech rallies for 7 runs in the 5th inning to stun No. 12 Gamecocks on Opening Day

Published on Feb. 5, 2026

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In a stunning turn of events, the No. 19 Virginia Tech Hokies overcame a 4-1 deficit with a 7-run 5th inning to defeat the No. 12 South Carolina Gamecocks 8-4 on Opening Day at Beckham Field. The Gamecocks had taken control of the game earlier, but a disastrous outing by reliever Emma Friedel allowed the Hokies to roar back and spoil South Carolina's home opener.

Why it matters

This early-season matchup between two ranked teams was an important gauge for both programs as they look to make a push in their respective conferences. The Gamecocks' collapse raises questions about their pitching depth and ability to close out games, while the Hokies showed impressive resilience to mount the comeback victory.

The details

After South Carolina took a 4-1 lead in the 5th inning, head coach Ashley Chastain Woodard brought in newcomer Emma Friedel to try and close out the game. But Friedel struggled mightily, allowing a solo home run, loading the bases, and then walking in a run before being pulled. Even with veteran Jori Heard taking over, the Hokies rallied for 7 runs in the inning to stun the home team. The Gamecocks had chances to get back in it late, but went just 1-for-14 with runners in scoring position.

  • The game took place on Thursday, February 6, 2026 at Beckham Field.
  • South Carolina took a 4-1 lead in the 5th inning.
  • Friedel entered the game in the 5th inning and recorded no outs while allowing 5 runs.

The players

Ashley Chastain Woodard

The head coach of the South Carolina Gamecocks softball team.

Emma Friedel

A newcomer pitcher for the South Carolina Gamecocks who struggled in relief, allowing 5 runs without recording an out in the 5th inning.

Jori Heard

South Carolina's veteran ace pitcher who took over after Friedel's struggles, but could not keep the Hokies from rallying.

Kylie Aldridge

The Virginia Tech Hokies' right fielder who hit a solo home run to start the Hokies' 7-run 5th inning comeback.

Emma Mazzarone

The Virginia Tech Hokies player who hit a 2-run triple that gave them the lead in the 5th inning.

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What they’re saying

“We must regroup and learn from this tough loss. There are still so many games ahead and we will be better prepared next time.”

— Ashley Chastain Woodard, Head Coach, South Carolina Gamecocks (GamecockCentral)

What’s next

South Carolina will host Syracuse on Friday afternoon at 3pm ET in the Gamecock Invitational, looking to bounce back from the Opening Day defeat.

The takeaway

This collapse raises early concerns about South Carolina's pitching depth and ability to close out games, while showcasing Virginia Tech's impressive resilience to mount a stunning comeback victory on the road against a ranked opponent.