Syracuse men's lacrosse clinched a thrilling victory over Yale, winning 16-15 and securing a spot in the NCAA Quarterfinals for the third consecutive year. The game showcased intense competition with multiple lead changes and ties, highlighting the skills of standout players: goalkeeper Jimmy McCool, who made 16 saves, and John Mullen, who excelled at faceoffs with 21 wins, contributing significantly to the Orange's performance. With balanced scoring from nine different players, including hat tricks from Michael Leo and Finn Thomson, Syracuse overcame Yale's late-game pushes to maintain their lead in the fourth quarter. The victory sets up an upcoming matchup against North Carolina on May 16.

By the Numbers
  • Jimmy McCool recorded 16 saves in the match.
  • John Mullen achieved 21-of-33 faceoff wins, matching his career-high with 18 ground balls.
  • Nine different players scored for Syracuse, with Leo and Thomson leading with three goals each.
State of Play
  • Syracuse is now set to compete in the NCAA Quarterfinals for the third straight year.
  • The Orange will face No. 3 seed North Carolina, marking their third meeting of the season.
What's Next

As Syracuse prepares for their upcoming game against North Carolina, analysts will be keenly watching how their previous encounters influence the tactics and performance of both teams. The outcome could set the tone for the remainder of the NCAA Tournament.

Bottom Line

Syracuse's resilience and depth in scoring were key drivers in their latest victory, showcasing their readiness for the challenges ahead in the tournament. The team's success will depend heavily on their ability to replicate this performance against a familiar rival.