Coming off a demoralizing 17-3 loss to Clemson on Friday — extending its losing streak to eight — NC State softball looked to get back on track in a Saturday showdown with the No. 18 Tigers.

Down 8-4 in the bottom of the seventh, the Pack needed a big rally to extend the game — and nearly delivered.

A two-run home run from freshman shortstop Kendall Simmers and a solo shot from junior designated hitter Hannah Church cut the lead to just one. A walk, single and a groundout put two runners in scoring position, but the Pack was down to its final out. Ultimately, junior second baseman Teagan Thrunk’s flyout to center field ended the game.

Wolfpack softball (21-21, 4-13 ACC) fell to Clemson (33-11, 13-4 ACC) for its ninth consecutive loss, as the Pack lost yet another close contest. This marks its third loss by one run in the last eight games, and fifth loss by three runs or less in the same stretch.

Throughout the contest, it seemed like NC State softball would finally get back in the win column. The Pack held Clemson to one run through three innings, and took a 4-3 lead after the fifth. But the Tigers broke through with five runs in the final two innings to build a lead large enough to hold off the Pack.

Junior pitcher Wynne Gore started the game in the circle, allowing one run and three hits, but only lasted 2.1 innings after taking a hard-hit comebacker.

Sophomore pitcher Carly Maxton replaced Gore, going 3.2 innings and giving up five earned runs on seven hits and four walks, falling to 9-7. She had been the ERA leader for much of the season, but has struggled as of late. Since the Florida State series, she has made seven appearances and given up 29 runs, increasing her ERA to 3.49. Gore has become the new top arm with an ERA of 3.41.

Junior pitcher Rylee Wyman got the final three outs in the top of the seventh, but gave up a three-run home run in the process, putting the Tigers up four and dimming the Wolfpack’s comeback hopes.

The almost-heroes in the seventh, Simmers and Church, had the most productive outings for the Pack, both recording three RBIs. Simmers went 2-for-2 with a home run and two walks, while Church went 2-for-4 with two home runs.

The Pack will face the Tigers for Game 3 on Sunday at Dail Softball Stadium. First pitch is set for 1 p.m.