Lexie Blair's two-run single in the fifth inning proved to be the difference as Michigan softball defeated South Dakota State, 2-1, in the opener of the NCAA tournament regional play in Orlando, Florida.
Alex Storako allowed a run on three hits and three walks over 6u2154 innings, striking out three for U-M (37-16). Meghan Beaubien relieved Storako with two out in the final inning, and after giving up a walk, struck out Emma Osmundson to clinch the game.
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Michigan will now play at 11 a.