FIU Softball Uses Big Sixth Inning to Take Down Louisville 7–5

MiaBella LoBracco

February 7, 2026
1:48 am

FIU softball fought back after Louisville started strong and won 7–5 using good pitching and big hits when they needed them.

Louisville came out hot to start the game, hitting two home runs in the first inning to put pressure on FIU early. But FIU didn’t stay quiet for long. In the bottom of the first, the Panthers answered with three runs of their own, taking a 3–2 lead going into the second inning and immediately shifting the momentum.

FIU pitcher M. Villazon bounced back after the first inning and found her rhythm. In the second inning, Villazon struck out back-to-back batters, helping FIU settle into the game defensively. Villazon pitched six innings, finishing with three strikeouts while battling through Louisville’s lineup.

FIU had production from multiple players. K. Byrd had two hits and two RBIs, including a big double. S. Zelenka finished with two hits, while K. Meredith and Z. McBurrows both scored. L. Clark, I. Perez, and K. Catherwood also added RBIs for FIU.

The biggest moment came in the bottom of the sixth inning. FIU added multiple runs, including one scored off a walk, helping extend the lead. By the end of the inning, FIU had pushed the score to 7–3.

FIU was able to hold off Louisville late to secure the 7–5 win. M. Villazon earned the win after pitching six innings and recording three strikeouts. J. Girigorie closed out the game in the seventh inning to earn the save and seal the victory for the Panthers. Despite Louisville fighting back and scoring five runs, FIU’s big sixth inning and early offensive response helped them finish the game on top.