Syracuse vs. Virginia Lacrosse Rivalry Returns: Expect an Exciting Clash
The storied lacrosse rivalry between Syracuse and Virginia is set to rekindle this Saturday at the JMA Dome. The matchup features No. 6 Syracuse (9-3, 1-1 ACC) hosting No. 9 Virginia (7-4, 2-0 ACC) at 4 p.m. on ESPNU. This iconic series dates back to 1938, with Syracuse currently holding a narrow 22-21 advantage. The all-time scoring totals stand at 567 to 564 in favor of the Orange.
Syracuse vs. Virginia Lacrosse Rivalry Returns
This clash promises excitement as both teams bring impressive statistics and histories to this 44th meeting.
Virginia Cavaliers Overview
Virginia heads into this game on a high note, boasting a four-game winning streak. The Cavaliers are led by head coach Lars Tiffany, a Lafayette, N.Y. native. Virginia’s offense is particularly potent, ranking sixth nationally, averaging 14.27 goals per game.
- Junior attack McCabe Millon is second in the nation with 34 assists and fourth overall with 54 points (20 goals, 34 assists).
- His freshman brother, Brendan Millon, mirrors this production with 54 points (23 goals, 31 assists).
- Senior Truitt Sunderland tops the team with 32 goals, while Ryan Colsey, the son of Syracuse legend Roy Colsey, contributes 26 goals.
- Virginia leads the NCAA with 9.7 assists per game.
Syracuse’s Challenges
For Syracuse, coach Gary Gait emphasizes the need to focus on defensive strategies against such a powerful offense. The Orange aim to secure ground balls and enhance transition play to capitalize on scoring opportunities.
Defensively, Virginia excels, ranking third in takeaways per game and holding Syracuse’s leading scorer, Joey Spallina, scoreless in their last encounter. The Cavaliers utilize a 10-man ride strategy to disrupt the Orange’s possessions.
Key Players and Statistics
| Player | Team | Goals | Assists | Points |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| McCabe Millon | Virginia | 20 | 34 | 54 |
| Brendan Millon | Virginia | 23 | 31 | 54 |
| Truitt Sunderland | Virginia | 32 | – | 32 |
| Joey Spallina | Syracuse | – | – | – |
Desko’s Recognition
Halftime will feature a special ceremony honoring former Syracuse head coach John Desko, who joins the JMA Dome’s Ring of Honor. With 529 career victories and multiple accolades, Desko’s contributions to Syracuse lacrosse have been remarkable.
Goaltending and Faceoff Insights
Syracuse’s goalie Jimmy McCool is looking to bounce back from last week’s challenges. He has faced difficulties recently, but Gait is optimistic about his performance moving forward. Face-off specialist John Mullen is seeking to improve his national ranking in winning percentage, aiming to regain confidence after a tough game against UNC.
As the rivalry reignites, fans can expect an exhilarating match filled with high-stakes action and memorable moments. Be sure to tune in to watch this compelling ACC lacrosse showdown.
