CLEMSON, SOUTH CAROLINA - Juju Harris needed just 71 minutes to write the story of Clemson's 1-0 victory over Wake Forest, slotting home a perfectly weighted through ball from Renee Lyles and Maria Manousos before a crowd of 2,147 at Riggs Field.
The early part of the match had promised more drama, with Wake Forest controlling much of the first half's possession and creating several half-chances. However, it was Clemson's tactical discipline that ultimately paid dividends, as they absorbed the Demon Deacons' pressure and waited for their moment to strike. The breakthrough in the 71st minute set the tone for a tense final quarter-hour, with Clemson's defense marshaling its resources to protect their slender lead.
As the game wore on, Wake Forest's frustration grew, evident in their increasing number of corner kicks - they earned seven to Clemson's three. Despite these set-piece opportunities, the Demon Deacons couldn't produce a clear chance, with Clemson goalkeeper, Samantha Leshnak, making three crucial saves to preserve her team's shutout. The statistical ledger reveals a tale of two teams: Wake Forest outshot Clemson 13-9 overall, but the Tigers held a commanding 6-3 advantage in shots on target.
The first half had been a closely contested affair, with both teams creating opportunities but failing to capitalize. Wake Forest's attacking play was orchestrated by their midfield trio, who threaded passes through Clemson's defense with varying degrees of success. However, it was Clemson's counter-attacking threat that ultimately proved decisive, with Harris's goal being the culmination of a swift and incisive move. Emily Wilson, Clemson's left back, had been instrumental in launching these counter-attacks, using her pace to stretch Wake Forest's defense.
In the second half, Clemson made tactical adjustments to stifle Wake Forest's attacking threat. They dropped deeper, inviting the Demon Deacons to commit players forward, before exploiting the spaces left behind. This approach paid dividends, as Clemson's defense withstood Wake Forest's pressure and remained organized throughout. The Tigers' victory represents their third consecutive win, taking their record to 6-4-5 overall and 3-3-2 in conference play. They now prepare to face Boston College, looking to continue their momentum.
For Wake Forest, the loss extends their losing streak to one game, leaving them with a 9-3-3 overall record and 3-2-2 in conference. Their attacking struggles were epitomized by their inability to find the target against Clemson - despite 13 shot attempts, they couldn't produce a single effort on goal. The Demon Deacons now turn their attention to Pittsburgh, where they will look to regroup and rediscover their winning form.
The afternoon belonged to Clemson - and specifically to Juju Harris, whose decisive goal will be remembered for weeks to come. As the Tigers celebrate their narrow victory, they know that their next challenge is just around the corner, with Boston College providing a stern test of their growing momentum.
Key Players:
Juju Harris (Clemson) – Slotted home the match-winner with composure, showcasing her clinical finishing ability.
Renee Lyles (Clemson) – Provided the incisive through ball that unlocked Wake Forest's defense and led to Harris's goal.
Samantha Leshnak (Clemson) – Made three crucial saves to preserve her team's shutout and secure the victory.
Megan McLaughlin (Wake Forest) – Orchestrated Wake Forest's attacking play with intelligent distribution, but ultimately couldn't create a clear chance.