A 17 point lead early on wasn’t enough to keep things from getting a bit interesting Friday night at Purcell Pavilion as Notre Dame outlasted Marshall in a 74-64 win that felt a bit closer than that.
The Irish shot out of a cannon to a 25-8 lead early on Friday night before stumbling into the later part of the half, watching their lead disintegrate to just three when Marshall got things to 31-27 with three minutes before halftime.
On a strange night for the Irish, they’re due credit for closing the stressful half with a great finish, taking a 40-29 lead to the break.
After another quick start to the second half, Marshall came thundering back (sorry, had to) with a 10-0 run that made things just 49-46 in favor of the Irish before a John Mooney took over like John Mooney tends to do as old-reliable was again the star as putting up 28 points and pulling down 16 boards. Another day, another double-double for the Pre-Season All-ACC team member.
Dane Goodwin had a fantastic night as well as his nine second half points (11 total) and seven rebounds on the night secured the win.
Dry spells from the field were much to blame for why things got interesting multiple times Friday night as Notre Dame shot just 24/76 on their home court. They also knocked down just seven of 28 three-point attempts.
Notre Dame plays their fourth straight game at home Friday as Presbyterian will be in South Bend. The 3-1 Fighting Irish are yet to trail at home this season.
You can watch highlights of Friday night’s victory right here.