Virginia Tech Tops Syracuse in Double Overtime
By Nicole Weaving
Women’s Lacrosse Beat Reporter
No. 18 Syracuse entered Saturday’s matchup against No. 14 Virginia Tech looking for its first win in the Atlantic Coast Conference. History was on the Orange’s side as SU has won all nine of its matchups against the Hokies, including two wins over the conference foe last season.
But careless mistakes took away Syracuse’s chance at a victory. Syracuse (8-6, 0-4 ACC) remains winless in the ACC as the Orange fell to Virginia Tech (11-4, 4-1 ACC) 15-14 in double overtime.
The Orange committed 33 fouls in the loss that led to 17 free position opportunities for the Hokies, the most Syracuse has allowed all season. Asa Goldstock bailed them out as she stopped seven free position shots. The Hokies also missed three shots by hitting post or missing wide. But Syracuse still gave up seven free goals to Virginia Tech, including two in the last four minutes of play to tie the game and send it to overtime.
The real dagger came in double overtime. Paige Petty snagged her sixth draw control of the day to start the period. Less than 30 seconds later, Julia Bolte found a wide-open Tristan McGinley cutting through the center of the eight-meter fan. There was miscommunication amongst SU’s defense, leading to McGinley easily putting the ball past Goldstock to win the game.
The Orange had a fighting chance throughout most of the game. Nicole Levy tied her career-high six goals after being held to one goal over the past three games. Her desire to score was shown in the power she brought on every shot. The junior had another behind-the-back goal, went 3-3 on free positions, and netted two from long range.
Emily Hawryschuk also made a huge difference. She took every draw in the contest for the second game in a row. The sophomore came away with a career-high seven draw controls. With Kerry Defliese and Neena Merola, this team may have found a trio that can win Syracuse the draw.
The Orange faces yet another ACC foe when No. 5 North Carolina visits the Carrier Dome on Saturday.
@nicki_weaves | nlweavin@syr.edu
