In its only exhibition game of the 2014 preseason, Syracuse piled up five goals [10] in a win against Binghamton.
But during Friday's season opener against Missouri, scoring proved a much harder task for the Orange.
SU and the Tigers combined for 34 shots, but none found the twine as the squads played to a 0-0 draw at the Penn State Invitational in University Park, Pa.
"I was happy with the movement of our forwards," SU head coach Phil Wheddon [11] said. "They were all dangerous. We created some quality opportunities, but we have to take advantage of our scoring chances."
Unlike during its victory over the Bearcats, the Orange (0-0-1) had the services of star sophomore Stephanie Skilton [12], who returned after competing in the FIFA U-20 World Cup. But even she couldn't help SU find the scoresheet.
Seven different Syracuse players sent shots toward Mizzou goalkeeper McKenzie Sauerwein, but the senior was rarely tested. She made only four saves en route to a shutout performance.
The Orange had one final chance in the second overtime period, but failed to capitalize on a corner kick opportunity.
SU goalkeeper MacKenzie Moranz finished with five saves in her first collegiate start, spearheading a strong performance by the Orange defense.
Despite the result, Wheddon was pleased with the way his team continued to attack throughout the match.
"It's always good to get a win, but we can head into Sunday's game (against Penn State) with our heads held high," he said.
