‘Cuse explodes offensively in season-opening win over Colgate

While revenge may have been a motivator for the No. 5 Syracuse men’s lacrosse on Friday, it was standout performances that shined in Orange’s 21-14 win over Colgate.

Having lost the 2019 season opener to the Raiders, Syracuse avoided a repeat thanks in part to seven goals from sophomore attack Chase Scanlan, the most ever for a player’s Orange debut and most by any SU player since 2015. 

The Orange were in control from start to finish, edging the Raiders in every frame. While Scanlan led the team in scoring, the Orange also had four players score multiple goals.

Seniors Peter Dearth and Stephen Rehfuss put together memorable games as each won ground balls and facilitated the offense in assisting roles. Dearth made several key strips defensively that led to breakaway opportunities and the ability to attack moving north and south. Additionally, Rehfuss operated as the team’s facilitator, leading the way with seven assists and 19 passes that set up shot attempts. 

Colgate kept the score close through the first period, limiting the Orange to just 6:42 seconds in possession time. The Orange, however, capitalized on an extra-man opportunity early in the second period, with Rehfuss driving hard and finishing with a curling shot that sparked a 5-0 Syracuse run.

The Orange used face-offs as a way to run straight into attack mode offensively. Their 64 percent face-off percentage bodes well for games in the coming weeks.

Friday’s win also marked a milestone for head coach John Desko who passed Roy Simmons Sr. for second-most wins in team history.

“This game will be a big indicator as to whether the defense has taken strides since last season’s disappointment,” Desko said prior to the game.

While Friday’s match was more about the offense, Desko made it very clear that if the team wants to contend for a title, they will need to improve defensively.

The Orange will host another in-state match next Saturday when Binghamton visits the Dome.