Propelled by a season-high score, No. 7 Alabama defeated No. 16 Auburn 197.3 – 195.4 in Auburn Arena on Friday night. It is the third time that the Crimson Tide have reached a score of 197 or higher this year.

“The ladies just never lost their grit, their fight, their focus,” Alabama head coach Dana Duckworth said in a press release. There were certain things that weren’t perfect, but our ladies continued to fight. There were so many highs in what we did tonight, but what I love is that they continued to trust themselves.”

Alabama started the night strong with a 49.4 on uneven bars, its second-highest score of the season. Wynter Childers, who returned from injury, filled the void left by senior Mackenzie Brannan who suffered a ruptured Achilles in practice last week. Childers recorded a 9.875.

The Crimson Tide followed a strong start on bars with solid performances on vault and floor, posting a 49.275 and 49.225. Alabama continued its strong night by notching a season high 49.4 on the balance beam.

Senior Kiana Winston won uneven bars with a 9.925, while fellow senior Nickie Guerrero took first on vault with a 9.9. Winston and Guerrero also tied for first on balance beam with freshman Lexi Graber, each scoring a 9.9.

After a string of seven straight SEC matchups, Alabama will host non-conference opponent North Carolina in Tuscaloosa on March 2.