Mizzou powers past Auburn in SEC opener, improves record to 19-2

COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)

Mizzou Softball has secured its first SEC win of the season, behind a strong pitching performance and a pair of home runs. Larissa Anderson's crew took down Auburn 5-2 on Friday evening in its first game at Mizzou Softball Stadium and first contest of conference play this season.

Laurin Krings pitched a great game in the circle, allowing just two runs on two hits over seven innings of work. She also struck out nine batters and posted her 500th career strikeout, becoming one of just eight Tiger pitchers to ever accomplish that feat. Krings has already pitched six complete games this season.

The Tigers grabbed the lead first in the opening frame. Jefferson City alum Kara Daly launched her third home run of the season to give Mizzou an early 2-0 advantage. Daly is now tied for the team lead in home runs.

After Auburn responded with two runs in the fourth inning to tie the game, Mizzou answered with three runs in the fifth frame, courtesy of a three-run blast from Julia Crenshaw. That home run was Crenshaw's first of the season.

As a team, Mizzou posted eight hits, and both Crenshaw and Kayley Lenger finished with two-hit performances.

Up next - The Tigers will look to clinch the series win and a seventh consecutive victory on Saturday, March 9. That game is scheduled to begin at 2 p.m.