Mississippi State secured a 5-2 victory over No. 20 LSU on April 25, clinching the series in front of a record-breaking crowd. The game featured strong performances from Peja Goold and key offensive contributions by Paige Ernstes and Xiane Romero.
The win was significant for Mississippi State, as it came during Super Bulldog Weekend with an attendance of 2,606 fans at Nusz Park, setting a new single-game record for college softball crowds in Mississippi. The Bulldogs responded to an early LSU home run with five runs in the first inning, highlighted by Ernstes’s three-run homer and Romero’s two-run shot.
Goold pitched her twelfth complete game of the season, striking out eleven batters and allowing only two runs. After the game, she received the final Golden Ticket for the AUSL College Draft. Head coach Samantha Ricketts said, “Peja is probably one of the most mature players I’ve had, especially as a pitcher. She’s confident, hardworking and – honestly – she already has the work ethic of a pro in college… We’re just so thrilled that she gets to continue her career and play at the next level and represent Mississippi State in the AUSL.”
Four of Mississippi State’s eight hits came from seniors honored before the game. Ricketts also commented on her team’s resilience: “Every weekend is like a Super Regional… I’m just really proud of the resiliency of this group.” Romero added about winning the series: “Oh my gosh, it’s been amazing… We worked very hard in the cages and on the field to get here and win.” Goold reflected on her journey to receiving professional recognition: “It means a lot… A year ago this would have never been in the picture for me… That’s such a huge honor to be able to make it this far because a year ago I didn’t know if I wanted to keep playing.”
The Bulldogs will aim for their first sweep of the season with another matchup against LSU scheduled for Sunday morning.
