Syracuse men’s lacrosse opened the 2026 season with a 13-6 victory over Boston University on Sunday afternoon at the JMA Wireless Dome, using a dominant third quarter to pull away from the Terriers.
The Orange took a 6-4 lead into halftime before erupting for six unanswered goals in the third quarter to seize control.
Joey Spallina led all scorers with five points, recording three goals and two assists. Sophomore Payton Anderson added two goals and an assist, while senior midfielders Michael Leo and Luke Rhoa each scored twice. Wyatt Hottle contributed two goals and an assist off the bench, and Bogue Hahn and John Mullen each found the back of the net once.
Senior goalkeeper Jimmy McCool made 12 saves in his season debut, including four stops in the second quarter to keep Syracuse in front. The Orange controlled possession throughout, collecting 31 ground balls and winning the faceoff battle. John Mullen went 14-for-19 at the X and picked up eight ground balls.
Boston University was led by Timothy Shannehan with two goals. Jimmy Kohr finished with a goal and an assist, while Ethan Hart, Donald Varnerin and Peyton Forte each scored once. Goaltender Connor Phillips made 12 saves while facing 48 shots.
Syracuse outshot the Terriers 48-36 and held an 18-5 edge in shots during the first quarter. The Orange also forced 18 turnovers and cleared at an 88 percent rate.
Syracuse continues its season-opening homestand Saturday, February 7, hosting Saint Joseph’s at 12 p.m.
Kyle leads sports coverage and hosts the Concrete Jungle podcast. Have a lead or question? Send it to [email protected].