As our series preview discussed, Auburn softball and Mississippi State Bulldogs were in very different situations entering the weekend.
When No. 3 Auburn (24-3, 1-2 entering the series) took the field at Nusz Park in Starkville on Friday, they hoped to build on the momentum gained from knocking off top-ranked and previously unbeaten Florida on Monday and their 18-1 demolition of Samford mid-week.
Meanwhile, Mississippi State (18-6 entering) was looking to end a three-game losing streak and was no doubt looking forward to opening their conference slate against last season’s SEC Tournament champions.
Game 1: Rhodes, Carlson Save Scuffling Tiger Offense
Auburn got out to an early 1-0 lead in the first inning after Kasey Cooper and Carlee Wallace drew two-out walks and Jade Rhodes singled in a run off of Bulldog pitcher Alexis Silkwood.