Clemson softball opened up regional play in dominant fashion Friday, defeating UNC Greensboro 17-2 in a run-rule victory at McWhorter Stadium.
It didn’t take long for the Tigers’ offense to come alive, as Clemson scored seven runs in the bottom of the first for a presiding lead.
Right fielder Caroline Jacobsen struck first blood when she hit a three-run homer to left field. Shortstop Alia Logoleo then hit a home run of her own to extend the lead to four. By the end of the first, the Tigers had a commanding 7-0 lead.
Although the Spartans got on the board in the top of the second, Clemson scored 10 unanswered runs through the second, third and fourth innings to ultimately come away with the run-rule victory.
As a team, Clemson finished with 14 hits on 27 at-bats. Jacobsen finished 3 for 4 at the plate with five RBIs and three runs scored. Second baseman Maddie Moore was second on the team with four RBIs, batting 2 for 3 at the plate.
Millie Thompson got the start in the circle for the Tigers, finishing with three strikeouts and recording the win in 3.0 innings pitched.
The Tigers will be back in action at 1 p.m. EDT on Saturday when they will play the winner of Game 2 between Auburn and Cal State Fullerton.