LAS CRUCES — Portales overcame a case of butterflies to win its first game Thursday in the Class 3A state softball tournament, beating No. 10 Hatch Valley 7-2.

Amanda Marquez pitched a five-hitter, struck out 10 and walked two for the Lady Rams.

Seeded seventh, Portales (16-11) faces second-seeded St. Michael’s in a 4 p.m. winners bracket game today in the double-elimination tournament. St. Michael’s beat Dexter 7-2.

Portales coach Robbie Crowley said she had to call a timeout to talk the team in the fourth inning when the Lady Rams got in a jam.

“After that they settled down, and started having fun,” Crowley said. “I think they're ready to play now, They’re young, but they responded really well.”

Portales finished second in last year’s tournament.

Portales 7, Hatch 2

Portales 020 140 0 — 7 6 2

Hatch 100 100 0 — 2 5 0

Leading hitters — Portales: Cynthia Armijo 1-3, Amanda Marquez 1-4. Hatch: Alexandra Aguirre 2-3. WP — Amanda Marquez (10SO, 2BB, 5H). LP — Hannah Barnes