Facing elimination in the Tallahassee Regional, Auburn softball delivered a strong performance to defeat Robert Morrisand keep their postseason hopes alive. With a 6-2 win on Saturday afternoon, the Tigers extended their stay in the NCAA Tournament and set up another opportunity to advance in one of the nation’s toughest regionals.
Fast Start Fuels Tigers
Auburn wasted no time getting on the board. In the bottom of the first inning, junior slugger Ivy Blanco roped an RBI double down the left field line to bring in the game’s opening run. That set the tone for a focused and aggressive offensive showing.
The Tigers added two more runs in the third thanks to a clutch two-out single from Makayla Packer, who finished the game 3-for-4 with 2 RBIs and a stolen base. Auburn’s offense, which had been quiet in their opening loss of the regional, looked rejuvenated against the Colonials.
“We challenged our hitters to be more aggressive early in the count, and they responded,” said head coach Mickey Dean. “This team has heart, and we’re not ready to go home.”
Pitching Holds Strong
Freshman pitcher Annabelle Widra got the start and kept Robert Morris off balance throughout the game, working five solid innings while allowing just one earned run and striking out six. She was backed by strong defense, including a diving catch in center field by Packer that prevented a potential rally in the fifth.
Reliever Maddie Penta entered in the sixth to close things out, recording the final six outs with ease and striking out three to secure the win.
What’s Next
The victory sets up a rematch for Auburn with either Florida State or UCF, depending on the outcome of Saturday night’s winners’ bracket game. The Tigers will need to win out in back-to-back games on Sunday to advance to the Super Regional round, but confidence is growing within the dugout.
“We’re built for the fight,” said Widra. “This team is resilient. One pitch, one game at a time — that’s our mindset.”
With their season on the line, Auburn responded with poise, energy, and execution. The journey continues, and the Tigers aren’t ready to let it end just yet.
