Syracuse's Season Ends in NCAA Quarterfinal Heartbreak Against Denver
Thirty-five minutes and 25 seconds of game clock had passed before Owen Hiltz fired his first shot against Denver. The redshirt junior Syracuse men’s lacrosse attack, known for his precise shooting, found no clear opportunities as Denver’s defense focused intently on shutting down Syracuse’s key players, even in off-ball situations.
Sunday's match revealed numerous issues for Syracuse, culminating in a 10-8 defeat that marked the end of their season. Despite a valiant 3-0 run in the fourth quarter, the Orange couldn’t overcome Denver’s dominance. The Pioneers’ defense effectively neutralized Syracuse’s offensive strategies, preventing them from playing to their strengths.
Denver’s tightly packed man-to-man defense, which rarely slid to the ball carrier, forced Syracuse into unfavorable dodging attempts from the wings and up top. This defensive strategy exposed Syracuse's vulnerabilities, clogging the middle and ensuring that even when a primary defender was beaten, a secondary defender was ready to take over.
Throughout the game, Syracuse struggled to adjust their offensive tactics. They managed only one goal over a 32-minute span, failing to spread Denver’s defense, increase their attacking touches, or move the ball consistently. The dynamic, free-flowing offense that Syracuse usually showcased was absent, as Denver dictated the game’s pace and flow, revealing Syracuse's lack of dynamic, athletic dodgers capable of taking over when necessary.
Michael Leo (3 goals) and Sammy English (2 goals, 2 assists) led Syracuse in scoring, while Hiltz (1 goal, 1 assist), Jake Stevens (1 goal), and Finn Thomson (1 goal) also contributed. However, only five players recorded points, with star player Joey Spallina held scoreless. Denver’s defense limited Spallina's touches and opportunities, resulting in just two shots for him.
The starting Syracuse attack didn’t attempt a shot until the third quarter, and while Leo and English managed 5-of-13 shooting, the rest of the team struggled with a 3-of-23 performance. Denver's physical play extended to the faceoff battle, where Alec Stathakis helped the Pioneers win 12-10, though Syracuse often turned the ball over shortly after gaining possession.
Despite a decent defensive effort that included a mix of zone and man coverage, Syracuse’s short-stick midfielders were occasionally beaten, and two questionable Denver goals stood after review. Will Mark’s nine saves and Saam Olexo’s five caused turnovers highlighted their final performances for Syracuse.
Reflecting on the season, it was evident that this game could have unfolded differently. Missed opportunities and a robust Denver defense sealed Syracuse's fate, resulting in their lowest scoring game of the season. Still, this season represented progress for the program, another step in their journey back to prominence.
While frustrating, the loss underscored areas for growth and improvement as Syracuse aims to build on this year’s achievements and strive for greater success in future seasons.
