Late rally lifts Mizzou to series-opening win over Florida

COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)

For the fourth time this season, No. 15 Mizzou Softball has defeated a team ranked No. 10 or higher in the nation. The Tigers upset No. 9 Florida on Friday night, behind a four-run rally in the sixth inning.

Larissa Anderson's crew was held hitless through the first five frames of the game but only trailed 3-2 after scoring two runs in the second inning on a hit by pitch and a sacrifice fly from Jenna Laird. In the home half of the sixth inning, Mizzou erased that one-run deficit with an RBI single from Kayley Lenger to tie the game, a hit by pitch from Alex Honnold to take the lead and a two-RBI single from Maddie Gallagher to send the Tigers to the final frame with a three-run advantage.

Marissa McCann kept Florida off the scoreboard in the seventh inning to seal the win, ending her stellar relief appearance in the circle. The true freshman tossed three scoreless innings, allowing just one hit and striking out three batters. McCann improved her ERA to 1.93 after this contest.

Stefania Abruscato, Lenger and Gallagher posted Mizzou's only three hits of the game. Lenger and Gallagher also posted two RBI's each to lead the team. While the Tigers got out-hit by the Gators 7-3, Mizzou was able to get nine other runners on base with five walks and four hit by pitches.

Up next - Mizzou will aim to clinch another SEC series win on Saturday afternoon. First pitch for game two of this series with Florida is scheduled for April 13 at 12:30 p.m.