NOTRE DAME, Ind., – Clemson delivered a resilient five-set performance against Notre Dame, forcing the Irish to five sets before the match ended 3-2 in favor of the home side with 25-23, 18-25, 15-25, 25-17 and 10-15 set scores.
The Tigers set the tone immediately, winning a tightly contested opening set behind Talea Mitchell’s kill and two service aces. Anika Groom finished the set with a kill assisted by Katherine Sandt, while Maddie Anspaugh and Lina Merz added important offensive plays.
Clemson continued to battle through the second and third sets with contributions from Groom, Merz, Mitchell, Anspaugh and Bri Washington. Merz would go on to have a career-best 12 kills on the night, while Washington had a career best five blocks.
Despite Notre Dame having the advantage, Clemson responded with its strongest performance in the fourth set, building an 11-7 lead and extending it to 20-14. Kennedy Wagner added a service ace, and the Tigers used strong blocking from Wagner and Washington to control the set. Mitchell delivered set point before Clemson finished with a block and a Notre Dame attack error.
In the deciding set, Clemson stayed within one point at 8-7. Merz and Washington combined for a block, Wagner added a kill assisted by Sandt, and Groom delivered another key offensive play. Clemson’s balanced attack, strong blocking and composure throughout the match highlighted a determined performance that pushed Notre Dame through five competitive sets. In the end, though, the Fighting Irish pulled away at the end to win 15-10.
With the 3-2 loss the Tigers are now 8-16 on the season and 2-10 in conference play.
Tiger Leaders
- Points: Lina Merz, Talea Mitchell – 13.5
- Kills: Lina Merz, Anika Groom – 12
- Digs: Katherine Sandt – 15
- Assists: Katherine Sandt – 45
- Blocks: Bri Washington – 5
Up Next: The Tigers will return home for games against Wake Forest on Nov. 6 at 6 pm and NC State on Nov. 8 at 1 pm. All the Tigers matches will be streamed on ACCNX. For the most up to date schedule information go to clemsontigers.com.
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