Goalkeeper Elyse Finnelle played a pivotal part in securing the rivalry clash, saving three shot attempts from the Hokies in the concluding two minutes.
“We've got to put four quarters together,” LaMonica said. “I think this was the first time we saw a higher-pressure defense... I think we allowed it to take us out of our abilities a little bit too much."
The match seemed to settle in the final quarter as both sides simply traded goals, ending with a 12-10 scoreline in favor of the Cavaliers. Piraino’s goal with 3:17 left was the final important action, securing a much-needed win over a ranked opponent.
“I thought FSU played us tough throughout, and cleaning up some stick-work errors will be important moving forward,” Head Coach Sonia LaMonica said. “I’m proud of our group for showing consistency across all quarters, both in defensive stops and offensive output.”
The Panthers attempted a late fourth-quarter comeback, making three goals to narrow the gap to 9-7 — but junior midfielder Kate Galica slammed the door shut, netting a final goal with less than a minute remaining and sealing the 10-7 victory for Virginia.
“I was proud of our draw unit today and Kate Galica with how she dominated,” LaMonica said. “It was unfortunate that we couldn't use that to our advantage today, on the offensive end and capitalize.”
As a whole, the Cavaliers outshot Notre Dame by a 26-15 margin. Although 26 shots signaled a successful attacking outing, allowing just 15 shots from a top-five team might be even more impressive.
“We can still improve on finishing better in some moments,” said LaMonica. “But this group is continuing to pound the rock and focused on getting better each day."
Despite the 0–3 start, this matchup proved that Virginia is still dangerous when it has the ball — the issue is maintaining possession over longer stretches.
The Cavaliers’ loss was characterized by lapses in defensive judgment.
Perhaps the circumstances played a role, perhaps not. Either way, Virginia faltered to open the campaign, falling 12-10 to No. 16 Navy.
Following a 2025 season that saw the Cavaliers navigate growing pains in their new era under Coach Sonia LaMonica, the team now finds itself at a critical turning point.
Beneath the eerie glow of the Scott Stadium lights and within the hallowed walls of John Paul Jones arena, some nights were better left forgotten.
Virginia fell in the second round of the tournament for the second time in a row.
Virginia got the better of LIU in the NCAA Tournament for the second year in a row.
