SU’s Late Comeback Sends Things to OT, but Fall Just Short to #8 Rutgers
By Nick Luttrell
CitrusTV Field Hockey Beat Reporter
PISCATAWAY, N.J. — Entering the fourth quarter, Syracuse (2-2) was down two goals to none to Rutgers (4-0). The Orange were desperate for a score. They were even just desperate to get a shot attempt at the net. Through the first three quarters, they had just one SOG (shots on goal).
But the offense is not to be blamed for their low production. It was the defense that struggled mightily throughout the game and was unable to get the ball off their side of the field. In the first quarter alone, Rutgers had five shots on goal while SU had none.
To put that in perspective, Syracuse had only allowed six total shots on goal in the previous three games. And the offense had attempted a wapping 47 shots on goal coming into today’s game.
Despite the poor defense from the rest of her teammates, goalkeeper Brooke Borzymoswki had herself a day in her second career start. Throughout the game, Rutgers had 14 SOG and Borzymoswki shut down 11 of those shots. Her 11 saves are the most by a Syracuse goalie since Sarah Sinck in October of 2019. On the other end, the Scarlet Knights’ Gianna Glatz recorded just three saves on five SOG by Syracuse.
After a dismal 45 minutes to start the game for SU, Rutgers (who led 2-0) appeared to be cruising to another win over a ranked opponent. But, when the fourth quarter started, something clicked for the Orange.
After having only one shot on goal in the first three quarters, SU managed four in the fourth quarter, two of which found the back of the net. Laura Graziosi in the 46th minute and Quirine Comans in the 54th.
After forcing overtime, Syracuse had all the momentum in the world but powered by the home-field advantage, Rutgers reclaimed that momentum and ran with it. After wearing down Borzymoswki in the second overtime, Lucy Bannatyne finally found the back of the net for Rutgers in the 72nd minute.
The game-winner by the Scarlet Knights felt familiar to Coach Bradley and her squad as just 6 days ago they lost a heartbreaker in overtime to Kent State. Overtime games seemed to be a struggle for the Orange last year as they were 2-4 in such games. That could be something to note for this season.
Syracuse will look to rebound and get back on the winning streak on Sunday. The Orange will travel to play another tough opponent in #12 UConn (2-2) on Sunday at 1 pm. You can pay to watch the game on FloSports TV or follow me on Twitter for (free) live updates throughout the game.
@nickluttie | naluttre@syr.edu
