In Syracuse’s last game, a two-goal win over Loyola (Md.) on May 3, the SU defense almost let a five-goal lead turn into a devastating loss.

Syracuse’s turnover woes led to easy transition scoring for the Greyhounds.

But the problems that plagued Syracuse last Saturday were largely absent as the second-seeded Orange (19-2, 6-1 Atlantic Coast) won the turnover battle, shutting down Stony Brook (17-4, 4-1 America East), 13-6, in the second round of the NCAA tournament at SU Soccer Stadium on Sunday afternoon. 

“Usually when we have practice for such a long time, we’re on our toes ready,” defender Natalie Glanell said. “When we have so much time to prepare we usually come out on fire like that.” 

Syracuse forced 16 turnovers. It’s biggest came at the end of the first half. SBU’s Courtney Murphy was attempting a free-position shot to bring the score to within six. 

Instead, the Syracuse defense collapsed and forced a turnover with 10 seconds to play. The Orange got out in transition and scored to increase its lead to eight heading into halftime. 

“When it counted in that first half, they were all over it, making plays,” SU head coach Gary Gait said. “That’s all we can ask for of them.”

Stony Brook got off just three shots in the first half. It’s first was by Murphy just more than four minutes into the game. Goalie Kelsey Richardson reached out and blocked it away with her stick to keep Stony Brook off the board. 

All afternoon, Syracuse’s defense ensured similar opportunities were few and far between for the Seawolves.

“It’s friggin’ – we’re going to the next round,” Glanell said. “It’s awesome. It’s exciting. There’s so much chemistry on this team.”

Published on May 11, 2014 at 7:31 pm

Contact Sam: sblum@syr.edu | @SamBlum3