Clemson Lacrosse Dominates Cal on Senior Appreciation Day

Regan Byrne tosses her stick after a goal against California. (Photo By Charles Mays/Tiger View Media)

In the first-ever meeting between the two programs, No. 16 Clemson lacrosse welcomed California for Senior Appreciation Day. Coming off consecutive wins over Louisville and UAlbany, outscoring opponents 35-10, Clemson is regaining their momentum. The Golden Bears have posted a 5-6 record with a 0-5 mark in the ACC. Emily Lampharter and Callan Fritsch got the start in the cage for both teams, respectively.

Clemson took care of business, converting on their first possession. They amassed a quick 5-0 lead through the first 11 minutes of play. Lindsey Marshall collected her second goal of the game off a woman-up free-position shot, marking her 200th career point. Cal had offensive opportunities but saw three shots hit off the post. Avery Hoeft finally got one in the back of the net to get the Golden Bears on the board. More goals from Brooke Goldstein and Marshall kept Clemson in control, up 7-2.

In the center circle, Kira Balis's fourth draw control win of the game saw her break Clemson’s single-season record with 109. As only a freshman, her contributions have highly contributed to the team's dominating performances. Clemson ultimately tied the face-off battle 10-10.

The Tigers' zone defense once again proved to be very effective, shutting out Cal in the second quarter. In the first half, Cal only recorded 10 shots. Lampharter was a wall, collecting 8 saves with a 72% save rate on her senior day.

Out of halftime, Lexi Edmonds got things started, becoming the seventh different Tiger to score. Regan Byrne’s second goal expanded the lead to ten. A yellow card from Clemson put Cal on the power play, where Emily Moes got her second goal of the day to end their scoring drought. However, they would be shut out for the rest of the game.

A spread-out offensive led Clemson to its third consecutive victory, 19-3. They now have a 9-4 record and 4-2 in the ACC. Kayla MacLeod netted her 68th career goal, tying a program record. The duo of Marshall and MacLeod each had 6 points from 5 goals, 1 assist, and 3 goals, 3 assists, respectively.

Clemson seems to be hitting their stride at the perfect time. The program will host East Carolina next on Tuesday at 5 p.m. Stay on the lookout for more record-breaking performances on this exciting team!