Minnesota challenged McHugh in a double-header at Finley Field, and McHugh was up to the challenge.
In the first game, McHugh squared off with Gopher pitcher Piper Marten, and McHugh outdueled Marten to lead the Tar Heels to a 1-0 victory.
"I thought Radara McHugh pitched a great first game," UNC coach Donna Papa said.
McHugh struck out seven in a dominating performance. She used her overpowering pitching to get out of a few jams as well.
McHugh faced runners on second and third in the second and fifth innings, but she didn't let them touch home.
UNC catcher Natalie Anter drove in the only run of the first game with a two-out double in the bottom of the first, scoring shortstop Michelle Semmes.
Anter made her presence felt on defense as well, as she picked off one baserunner each game.
"When somebody gets on, I'm just going to do my best to keep them from advancing anywhere," Anter said.
She also tagged out Marten at home in the top of the second inning in the first game.