RUSTON, La. – It wasn't the home opener the Techsters wanted.

Louisiana Tech managed only three hits, struck out 12 times and ran itself into a game-ending double play in a 3-2 loss to Northwestern State Wednesday night at Dr. Billy Bundrick Field.

And head coach Josh Taylor wasn't okay with it.

"I didn't like our approach at the plate," said Taylor. "We have to be better. And we will be better. I'm not okay with a lot of things tonight."

Northwestern State (4-1) got a strong pitching performance from freshman Sage Hoover, who picked up the win with 5.0 innings allowing just one run on three hits and four walks while striking out nine. Kenzie Seely (1) got the save, holding Tech without a hit or run over the final 2.0 innings.

After the Demons took a 3-0 lead with two runs in the top of the fifth inning, Tech answered with a single run in the bottom of the frame when Katelin Cooper was hit by a pitch with the bases loaded. However, Tech stranded the bases loaded as the final out was recorded by a strikeout looking.

"We simply have to be better at the plate," said Taylor. "We will get there."

Tech added another run in the bottom of the sixth inning, but had opportunities for more. Lindsay Edwards walked and Aleya Hill singled down the first base line to put runners on the corners with no outs.

One out later, Edwards scored as she avoided the tag at home plate on a ground ball out back to the pitcher, cutting the deficit to 3-2.

Tech had an opportunity in the bottom of the seventh when Caroline Easom drew a leadoff walk. However, Brooke Diaz lined a shot that was caught by NSU shortstop Keely DuBois as pincher runner Tanjala Smith was doubled off of first base to end the game.

"It's all the little things," said Taylor. "Not getting a bunt down. Not running the bases properly. Not hitting cutoffs. Not being in cutoff position. We just didn't execute well enough tonight."

Audrey Pickett (2-1) took the loss, allowing three runs on eight hits in 7.0 innings of action.

Tech hosts Sam Houston State and Tulsa in a two-day round-robin tournament Saturday and Sunday at Dr. Billy Bundrick Field.