The Missouri Tigers (18-17, 1-6 SEC) faced off against the #19/21 Ole Miss Rebels (27-6, 4-3 SEC) at Ole Miss Softball Stadium in Oxford, with the weather no longer an issue. The Tigers were up against SEC strikeout and shutout leader, Miali Guachino, and despite a solid performance from starter Marissa McCann (7-7, 3.23 ERA), Missouri’s defense and offense struggled, resulting in a 67-57 loss.
McCann had a strong showing on the mound, allowing just two hits and two walks. However, errors from her defense and an ineffective offense led to yet another shutout. Guachino, who leads the SEC with 143 strikeouts this season, dominated with nine strikeouts of her own, and the Tigers only managed two hits and two walks throughout the game.
Missouri’s best chance came in the third inning when Claire Cahalan walked, and Julia Crenshaw and Madison Walker each singled. However, a strikeout ended the inning without a run scored. McCann was able to navigate some trouble with Ole Miss’ offense, but a defensive miscue allowed Ole Miss to score in the third inning.
The Tigers’ offense struggled to capitalize, leaving runners stranded throughout the game, including an opportunity to load the bases in the second inning. In contrast, Ole Miss took advantage of every opportunity, including hitting home runs and capitalizing on mistakes.
Missouri’s offensive woes continued throughout the game, with several opportunities to score squandered. Cierra Harrison (7-5, 3.87 ERA) pitched the second game, but Missouri’s lack of offense combined with questionable pitching decisions left them struggling. Despite a few individual moments, such as Taylor Ebbs’ solo shot, Missouri couldn’t keep up and ultimately lost 5-3.
Up next, the Tigers will attempt to secure their second SEC win of the season and avoid a sweep against Ole Miss, with a game scheduled for Monday at 6 pm CST on SEC Network. Afterward, they’ll return home for a matchup against Missouri State and face the #1 Texas team next weekend.
