Clemson women's lacrosse dropped another close one to Notre Dame to get bounced in the second round of the ACC Tournament. (Clemson athletics photo)

by CU Athletic Communications - Wed Apr 24 21:11:16 GMT-04:00 2024

CHARLOTTE, NC.- After a full 60 minute battle, the Clemson Tigers (11-7, 3-7 ACC) lost 14-12 in the ACC Quarterfinals against the Notre Dame Fighting Irish (15-2, 8-2 ACC).

Seven different Tigers got on the board Wednesday, including Regan Byrne, Summer Agostino, Shannon Brazier, Hanna Hilcoff, Caitlin McElwee, Natalie Shurtleff, and Bella D’Gracia. Hilcoff was the lead scorer, tallying four goals to earn her another hat trick to add to the resume. On the defensive side, Emily Lamparter saved seven goals in the first half and ended the game with a total of 11.

The Fighting Irish opened up the scoring in this game, but the Tigers did not let that affect them. Clemson responded, scoring three goals in three minutes, with two of them scored by Regan Byrne and one scored by Natalie Shurtleff. Hilcoff also added her name to the goal scoring list just two minutes after the Tigers three goal run. Clemson held onto their lead going into the second quarter with a score of 4-3.

Shannon Brazier took it upon herself to open up the scoring in the second quarter, scoring her 14th goal of the season. Notre Dame went on a two goal scoring streak to tie up the game, but Summer Agostino and Hanna Hilcoff took advantage of two free position shots, giving the Tigers a two goal lead. The Tigers fought hard but couldn’t hold onto the lead as the score going into the half stood at 7-10.

Clemson tallied three goals in the third quarter. Caitlin McElwee netted the first with a picture-perfect pass from Agostino. That goal was quickly followed by a goal from defender Bella D’Gracia. D’Gracia sprinted the full length of the field to rip the ball into the back of the net, earning her second goal of the season. To round out the quarter, Hilcoff scored her third goal of the game. At that point in the game, Hilcoff had successfully scored on all three shooting attempts. The score was in the Irish’s favor at the end of the third quarter at 10-12.

To wrap up the game, Hanna Hilcoff and Summer Agostino were the two Tiger’s to score in the fourth quarter. This quarter was an equal battle with both teams scoring twice, but Clemson couldn’t close the two goal gap that stood between them and the Irish coming out of the third quarter, which ultimately resulted in the final score being 12-14.

The NCAA Selection Show is scheduled for May 5th, and the Tigers will be eagerly waiting to hear if their name is called for a chance to battle for the National Championship.