CLEMSON, S.C. - Stanford's 2023 season came to a close on Saturday night as the Cardinal fell 2-0 to Clemson. Stanford concludes the campaign in the NCAA Tournament quarterfinal round with an overall record of 11-4-5.
"Obviously we're so disappointed at getting knocked out," said The Knowles Family Director of Men's Soccer Jeremy Gunn. "But it was a fair result on the night in that Clemson came out of the blocks a little bit better than we did."
Clemson had the better chances early, and capitalized. The hosts opened the scoring in the 7th minute.
"I think they were a bit sharper in that first 10 minutes and we were a bit tentative," explained Gunn. "Unfortunately, in that time when we were trying to settle into the game, we gave up a great headed set piece goal."
Stanford began to find its footing, but it was Clemson who found the back of the net again, doubling the lead in the 37th minute. The 2-0 result held into halftime.
"I really felt midway through the first half, we got to settle down and play better," said Gunn. "Obviously 2-0 down, we're still in it, and I was really proud of how we played in the second half."
In the second half, it was the Cardinal who had more opportunities. Ryan Dunn fired in a shot early in the period, narrowly missing wide of the net.
"We were on the front foot, and tonight wasn't our night," added Gunn. "They score off a set piece in a crowded box and we have some fantastic chances that are cleared."
Later in the half, Zach Bohane launched a dangerous free kick, but it was saved. Noah Adnan also had a chance off a well placed corner kick, but his header was stopped.
"That's part of the game, we were clearing balls and scoring them last week," said Gunn. "And this week, we created some fantastic chances and tonight was Clemson's night for some of those heroic saves."
In the end, Stanford had four shots including two on goal to Clemson's eight shots and six on target. Rowan Schnebly made three saves on the night during his 90 minutes in goal.
"Just so proud of how the team have played this year, it's an incredible group and team," said Gunn. "So sad for the season to finish, but truly proud of everything they've done."
This marks Stanford's first trip to the NCAA quarterfinals since 2019 when the team last advanced to the College Cup.
"We're going to wish our seniors a fond farewell with everything they're going to move onto," said Gunn. "And for the big, young group in this squad, this is a tough experience, but I think it can be a great experience for them moving forward."