Syracuse men’s lacrosse captured its third ACC Tournament title, and first since 2016, with a thrilling 9-8 win over No. 9 Duke on Sunday afternoon in Charlotte.
Backed by a dominant defensive performance and clutch goaltending from ACC Goalie of the Year Jimmy McCool, the No. 12 Orange (11-5) stifled the high-powered Blue Devils offense, holding them well below their season-scoring average. McCool earned Tournament MVP honors after making 10 key saves, while seven Orange players earned All-Tournament recognition.
The offense was balanced and efficient. Joey Spallina and Michael Leo each tallied three points, while Owen Hiltz, Finn Thomson, and Payton Anderson netted two goals apiece. Hiltz’s first-quarter goal extended his school-record point streak to 61 games.
Faceoff specialist John Mullen dominated the X, winning 13-of-17 draws and scooping up 11 ground balls as Syracuse controlled possession, especially down the stretch. The Orange outshot Duke 39-35 and won the final seven faceoffs to preserve their slim lead.
After a furious late push by the Blue Devils, Syracuse’s defense held firm in the final seconds, forcing a wide shot at the buzzer to seal the victory.
The Orange now await their NCAA Tournament seeding, which will be revealed Sunday night.
Kyle leads sports coverage and hosts the Concrete Jungle podcast. Have a lead or question? Send it to kyle@fingerlakes1.com.
