Stanford had a sweet taste of revenge as they triumphed over USC in the semifinals of the 2024 NCAA Women’s Golf Championship, setting the stage for an epic final showdown against UCLA.
High-Stakes Drama Unfolds at Omni La Costa
Amidst the picturesque setting of Omni La Costa’s North Course in Carlsbad, California, the tension was palpable as Stanford and USC battled it out. Memories of their defeat in the previous season fueled Stanford’s determination to emerge victorious this time around.
Stanford’s Stellar Performance Secures Championship Match Spot
In a dominant display, top-seeded Stanford outplayed No. 4 USC with a resounding 4-1 victory in the semifinals, earning them a well-deserved spot in the championship match for the second time in three years. Their opponents in the final, sixth-seeded UCLA, also showcased their prowess by defeating Oregon 3-1 in the semis.
Coach Anne Walker Praises Team’s Grit and Respect
Reflecting on the intense matchup, Stanford coach Anne Walker commended her team’s resilience and sportsmanship. Despite the fierce competition, both teams displayed mutual respect for each other’s abilities and dedication.
Unforgettable Moments and Stellar Performances
The decisive moment came on the par-3 16th green when Kelly Xu sealed the victory for Stanford, triggering jubilant celebrations among teammates and fans. Notable performances from players like Megha Ganne and Sadie Englemann further solidified Stanford’s path to redemption.
UCLA’s Historic Journey to the Championship
On the other side, UCLA finds themselves in uncharted territory as they gear up for their first championship match in the match-play era. Under the guidance of head coach Alicia Um Holmes, the Bruins are aiming to clinch their first title since 2011 with a roster of talented players, including notable transfers.
Pac-12 Dominance and Historic Semifinals
The semifinals witnessed a strong presence of Pac-12 teams, setting the stage for an unprecedented showdown with three Big 10 teams and one ACC team in the upcoming championship match. The remarkable feat of four teams from the same conference reaching the semis highlights the depth of talent in collegiate women’s golf.
The Ultimate Showdown
As the anticipation builds for the championship match, all eyes are on the clash between No. 1 Stanford and No. 6 UCLA. With a lineup of top-tier players ready to showcase their skills, the stage is set for a thrilling finale that promises to be a fitting conclusion to an exhilarating tournament.
By: Cameron Jourdan
Title: Stanford Seizes Redemption Against USC, Sets Up Showdown with UCLA in 2024 NCAA Women’s Golf Championship Final
Sourced From: golfweek.usatoday.com/2024/05/21/2024-ncaa-womens-golf-championship-semifinal-scores-stanford-ucla/
Published Date: Wed, 22 May 2024 02:37:05 +0000
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