Syracuse Survives Potential Upset Against Princeton

By Nicole Weaving
Women’s Lacrosse Beat Reporter

In last year’s matchup, Princeton came into the Carrier Dome and scored nine goals in the first half. But this afternoon, it was Syracuse’s turn as the Orange was up 9-5 heading into the locker room.

That four-goal lead was eliminated just under ten minutes into the second half. Tess D’Orsi, who was dormant in the first half, scored three goals in this stretch and would tickle the twine five times by the end of the game.

The game would be tied three times and Princeton would even claim a lead at one point following its scoring run. The Tigers scored two goals in the final four minutes to bring the game within one, but they couldn’t get it done. Syracuse (7-4, 0-2 Atlantic Coast) was able to pull out the win over Princeton (4-4, 1-1 Ivy League), 17-16, at Sherrerd Field.

Lila Nazarian had a strong, aggressive game. She caused three turnovers, two of which led to Syracuse goals, and was scrappy on ground balls, snagging six of the Orange’s 15. But Nazarian received SU’s only yellow card, allowing Princeton to net its first goal of the game.

Asa Goldstock and Hannah Van Middelem combined for ten saves in the contest. The duo had an inconsistent game even though they had three more saves than Princeton’s three goalies. This could be attributed to the defense giving up multiple free position shots.

The Orange defense fouled 19 times, which resulted in eleven free position opportunities. The Tigers then executed on six out of ten free position shots, where Goldstock or Van Middelem was left completely out to dry.

But a team effort by No. 12 Syracuse prevented a potential upset by the unranked Tigers. The Orange held the advantage on the draw thanks to Neena Merola while nine players on offense stepped up when Nicole Levy was face guarded.

Syracuse finally returns home after a five-game road trip to face No. 20 Duke on Saturday.

@nicki_weaves | nlweavin@syr.edu