Soccer

SU snaps a four-game winless streak

SU snaps a four-game winless streak

In a must-win contest, five different goal scorers propel Syracuse to a victory over Canisius.

Defenseman Chimere Omeze holds a soccer ball
Maria Kaffes
Defenseman Chimere Omeze prepares to toss the ball back into play

For the first time in 13-years, Syracuse men’s soccer faced off in a regular season game against in-state foe, Canisius University. 

The Orange emphasized the importance of this match, not only for their record, but their overall team morale as well. Their 5-1 victory over the Golden Griffins was the response they had been seeking and winning their first game since Aug. 25, ending SU four game winless streak. 

The scoring frenzy began early with Giona Leibold finding the foot of Gabe Threadgold lurking at the back post three minutes into the game. 

After a well-earned corner kick sent in by Elton Chifamba, the Orange continued to apply pressure ultimately finding the head of Andre Cutler-DeJesus for the eventual game-winning goal in the 15th minute. 

Cutler-DeJesus did not hold back on his celebration, which he says was encouraged by Coach McIntyre throughout their preparation leading up to the game. 

“We talked a lot about defending our home turf,” Cutler-DeJesus said. “Coach Mac said we’re never going to let another team celebrate on our own field again. Those celebrations are reserved for us.”

As the clock ticked down towards halftime, SU remained in complete control, and the Golden Griffins struggled to create any chances. 

The domination of possession by SU allowed Daniel Burko to post up and receive the ball just outside the 18-yard box. Burko quickly turned and fired in another goal past an outstretched Canisius keeper, Jack Petrie, in the 38th minute. It was a special night for Burko as he celebrated his first goal of the season and his 22nd birthday!

Following the break, the Orange still found themselves on the front foot, continuing their offensive onslaught. Their fourth goal came shortly into the half as Nathan Scott put away a well-placed cross that made its way into the 6-yard box in the 54th minute. 

However, the Golden Griffins weren’t going down without a fight as Kevin Villacorta found their lone goal of the match in the 56th minute.

But still, SU wanted more and it was only fitting that the captain, Michal Gradus, would capitalize on his first minutes of the season by putting away a penalty kick in the 88th minute. Only feelings of pure elation and pride remained as the final whistle blew. 

Next up, the Orange head to Louisville for a critical ACC matchup on Friday.