The Orange were certainly tested down the stretch by a relentless UMASS squad. However, in the end, they held off the Minutewomen to win 4-2 and advance to the second round of the NCAA Tournament.
The Syracuse team heavily outshot UMASS. Primarily, those scoring opportunities resulted in goals from senior co-captain Emma Russell [10], Lies Lagerweij [11], and Liz Sack [12]. Helping out were forwards Alma Fenne [13], Laura Hurff [14], and Russell whom each dished out an assist. Senior co- captain Alyssa Manley [15] and freshman Roose Weers [16] among several others played excellent as well on the offensive side.
On the defensive end, the Orange were for the most part shut-down. Aside from some trouble towards the end, Syracuse kept UMASS scoreless until the 59th minute. Senior goalie Jess Jecko [17] made an excellent save in the 23rd minute—the only one she had throughout the game—out of the mere three shots attempted against her.
Altogether, Cuse maintained possession and left the Minutewomen with little to no margin for error. When UMASS displayed even the slightest glimpse of life, Syracuse fought hard to snatch momentum back; they played with grit and determination and, there’s no doubt the home crowd appreciated the effort.
The Orange faithful came out and battled the elements today. There dedication proves what high aspirations they have for this tournament. Some errors lead you to think they must finish strong in order to make it far in this tournament, but the overall commanding performance nonetheless showed why the Orange deserve its No. 1 ranking.
The Orange face Princeton next on Sunday, November 15 at 2 p.m. They will once again have home-field advantage playing at Coyne Field. A win would put them in the semifinals.
