In another show of offensive firepower, the LSU softball team took both games of its doubleheader Friday by a combined score of 16-2.

The Tigers defeated North Dakota State 9-0 and then Virginia 7-2 to open play at their home tournament — the Purple and Gold Challenge.

“I like to see them come out like that,” said LSU coach Beth Torina. “That’s two weekends in a row now where we’re playing at home coming out like that. I’m really confident in that part of the lineup too. They’re doing some really great things.”

In the two games, LSU hit three balls over the wall, bringing their season total to nine — it took them until March 25 to reach the same mark in 2012.

Senior pitcher Rachele Fico continued her dominant performance Friday night, retiring eight NDSU batters, including her 600th career strikeout making her the sixth Tiger pitcher to reach the milestone.

“It’s definitely an honor,” Fico said. “The people who have worn this jersey and the letters LSU across their chest have just been incredible and they’ve definitely paved the way for softball and the younger athletes. They made everything we have here at Tiger Park possible.”

Junior pitcher Meghan Patterson won her second start of the season with a four strikeout performance against Virginia, surrendering two runs in the process.

LSU will play Virginia and Memphis Saturday night in Tiger Park at 5 p.m. and 7 p.m. respectively.