AUBURN, Ala. – It was a pitching duel through the first four innings, but No. 17 Auburn softball (29-6, 7-5 SEC) came up short, 3-0, in the series finale against No. 7 Florida (30-6, 7-5 SEC) Sunday at Jane B. Moore Field.
"We got too wrapped up in the emotions of the game," said head coach Mickey Dean. "Florida did a better job battling and not chasing with two strikes. We're a young team, so we have work to do in that area. Our kids came out here against the No. 7 team in the county – a team with a ton of experience – and competed every game. We're getting better every weekend, and it's exciting to watch."
Sophomore Maddie Penta went toe-for-toe with Florida ace Elizabeth Hightower. Through the first four innings, the two pitchers allowed just three hits.
The Gators led off the fifth with a double to left center, driving in a run on a Katie Kistler single to right field. Florida added two runs in sixth off three singles, a walk and a wild pitch.
Auburn put base runners on in the fifth and sixth but couldn't find the clutch hit as the Tigers left a total of six stranded on base in the game.
Penta (18-3) went the distance against the Gators, striking out five.
At the plate, Auburn was limited to three hits as sophomore Makayla Packer, junior Carlee McCondichie and freshman Bri Ellis all knocked singles in the contest.
UP NEXT
Auburn closes its homestand on Wednesday with a midweek test against Georgia State. First pitch on the SEC Network+ is set for 6 p.m. CT.