Clemson Scores Dramatic Walk-off Victory to Sweep Notre Dame

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ICARO Media Group
Politics
07/04/2024 22h12

In a thrilling game at Frank Eck Stadium on Sunday afternoon, the No. 2 Clemson Tigers clinched a dramatic 13-12 walk-off victory over the Notre Dame Fighting Irish. With this win, Clemson completed a series sweep, extending their winning streak to six games.

The Tigers got off to a blazing start, scoring six runs in the top of the fourth inning. An error by Notre Dame allowed the first run to score, followed by a two-run double by Nolan Nawrocki. Jacob Jarrell then crushed a three-run homer, his first of the season, giving Clemson a commanding lead.

Notre Dame fought back, managing to score an unearned run in the bottom of the fourth inning. In the fifth, Jacob Hinderleider continued his impressive hitting streak, driving in two runs with a double. Jarren Purify contributed with a sacrifice fly, narrowing the deficit for the Fighting Irish. Jimmy Obertop added to the scoring with a solo homer in the sixth inning.

Clemson extended their lead in the seventh inning when Jarrell hit a run-scoring single, bringing the score to 11-1. However, Notre Dame refused to be defeated, as they mounted a spectacular comeback. They scored one run in the seventh inning and exploded for four runs in the eighth inning.

The tension continued to rise in the ninth inning when Estevan Moreno hit a three-run homer, tying the game 11-11. Notre Dame's Jack Penney then scored from second base on a passed ball with two outs, completing the comeback and sending the game into extra innings.

In the decisive 11th inning, Clemson's Jack Crighton hit a ground ball to the shortstop. The ensuing throw to first base went astray, allowing both baserunners to score, propelling the Tigers to a dramatic walk-off victory.

Rocco Reid was credited with the win for Clemson (2-0), while Aidan Knaak delivered a superb pitching performance, not allowing a hit until the seventh inning. Knaak recorded nine strikeouts over a career-high seven innings pitched, conceding just two hits, two unearned runs, and no walks.

On the losing side, David Lally Jr. (0-1) faced disappointment for the Fighting Irish.

With this victory, Clemson improved to an impressive 28-3 record overall and 10-2 in ACC play. On the other hand, Notre Dame dropped to 14-15 overall and 2-13 in ACC play.

Clemson's ability to capitalize on the late-game error secured their series sweep and maintained their strong position in the ACC standings. The Fighting Irish, despite their valiant comeback effort, were left to rue missed opportunities.

The Tigers will look to build on their momentum as they continue their season, while Notre Dame will search for a turnaround to salvage their campaign.

The views expressed in this article do not reflect the opinion of ICARO, or any of its affiliates.

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