Walk-off bomb propels No. 7 LSU over No. 12 Texas A&M in opener

Game #33: No. 7 Louisiana State 2, No. 12 Texas A&M 1 (8 innings)
Records: Texas A&M (28-5, 8-2), Louisiana State (27-4, 6-4)
WP: Sydney Berzon (11-1)
LP: Emiley Kennedy (14-4)
Box Score

Facing its first top-10 opponent of the season on Thursday night, No. 12 Texas A&M fell to No. 7 LSU in eight innings via a walk-off homer, 2-1.

Coming into the game, LSU and A&M's numbers indicated this matchup was to be won in a hard-fought battle — which proved to be true. 

The Maroon & White (47) might have more home runs this season than the Tigers (27).

However, the game was ultimately decided by a walk-off home run by LSU.

Koko Wooley — who last ensured a series sweep over Auburn with her own walk-off homer — struggled on Thursday, finishing 0-for-4.

The Aggies called upon Emiley Kennedy to start in the circle, and she shut out the Tigers for five full innings. Kennedy ended the day with four strikeouts. LSU’s starting pitcher Sydney Berzon recorded five.

Vital players on A&M's offense had uncharacteristic performances in Baton Rouge, such as .405 hitter Allie Enright, who failed to reach base.

The Aggies found some success making contact, but ultimately could not get past the Tigers' dominating defense, which led to A&M being silenced for seven innings. 

Chris Swann, TexAgs

A&M’s lone run came via a bases-loaded walk from Julia Cottril. 

A&M scored on a bases-loaded walk that brought in Amari Harper to gain an early lead, 1-0. 

Though, the Aggies remained scoreless for the rest of the game. 

Holding the lead until the bottom of the fifth, A&M allowed a run on an RBI single by Ciara Briggs to even the score. A quick 1-2-3 frame followed on both sides in the sixth inning. 

Kennedy proved her mental strength in high-pressure situations yet again as a runner was on third with one out. 

On a 3-2 count, Kennedy left McKaela Walker looking in the box. Ali Newland then lined out to Kramer Eschete to bring the game into extra innings. 

Renowned power-hitter Trinity Cannon has been met with many game-winning at-bats this season.

However, she could not capitalize as she was left looking in the box. 

While the Aggies finished the night with seven hits to LSU’s five, the Tigers were able to clinch a win due to Taylor Pleasants’ walk-off homer.

The Aggies look to even the series on Friday. First pitch is scheduled for 5 p.m. CT.