The Creighton softball team defeated Villanova 11-3 in a run-rule victory on March 21, capped by a two-run walk-off double from Avery Barnard in the fifth inning at Creighton Softball Stadium.
This win brings Creighton’s record to 14-17 overall and 6-2 in BIG EAST play, while Villanova falls to 6-24 overall and 2-6 in league action. The game was marked by a strong offensive showing from the Bluejays, who scored seven runs in the second inning.
Villanova took an early lead when starting pitcher Carly Zych hit a solo home run in the top of the second. However, Creighton responded quickly as Tara Vandewater’s RBI double tied the game, followed by Ashley Smetter’s pinch-hit grand slam—the first for the Bluejays since March 28, 2025—giving them a commanding lead. Additional runs came from Kaelan Schultz’s sacrifice fly and hits by Greenwood and Barnard.
Villanova narrowed the gap with two runs in the third inning, but Creighton extended their advantage with RBI hits from Ella Dalton and Greenwood. Freshman pitcher Ava Drehs earned her fourth win of the season, allowing only three runs on three hits during her complete-game performance.
The Bluejays finished with eight hits and nine walks. Smetter recorded a career-high four RBIs along with her first career home run. The team will aim to sweep the series against Villanova when they meet again on Sunday at noon.
