The No. 7 LSU Softball team kicked off the Purple & Gold Challenge Tournament in Tiger Park today at 4 p.m. where they took on Illinois.

After uneventful first and second innings, the Tigers were the first to put a point on the board in the third. Ciara Briggs singled and allowed Madilyn Giglio to score on the throw.

Illinois answered the Purple and Gold in the fourth, however, and took the lead. Adisyn Caryl doubled which allowed Stevie Meade to score. Then Megan Ward stepped up to the plate and singled which allowed Caryl to score, making it 2-1.

The fifth inning brought no scoring, but after the sixth, the Tigers were back on top. Briggs was able to score and McKaela Walker was able to advance to third on a single from Ali Newland.

Walker then took it home after a bunt from McKenzie Redoutey, making the score 3-2. With one more inning left, Illinois’ Yazzy Avila grounded out and LSU pitcher Raelin Chaffin struck out the next two batters to end the game.

LSU is currently playing San Diego State in the second matchup of the Purple & Gold Challenge Tournament, who they will also face again tomorrow at 5 p.m.