No. 3 Syracuse men’s lacrosse had its six-game win streak snapped with a 14-9 loss to No. 2 North Carolina on Saturday afternoon at Dorrance Field.
The Orange fell to 9-3 overall and 1-1 in ACC play despite a five-point performance from Michael Leo, who recorded three goals and two assists. Luke Rhoa added two goals, and eight Syracuse players registered at least one point.
Syracuse started strong, taking a 2-1 lead on back-to-back goals from Wyatt Hottle and Leo in the first quarter. North Carolina responded late in the period and then took control with a 6-0 run spanning the first and second quarters, building an 8-3 advantage.
The Orange stopped the run late in the half, with Leo contributing a goal and an assist to trim the deficit to 8-5 at the break.
North Carolina extended its lead to 10-5 early in the second half, but Syracuse responded with a push, cutting the margin to three goals late in the third and again in the fourth. Leo completed his hat trick during the stretch, and Rhoa added a pair to keep the Orange within reach.
The Tar Heels pulled away late with two quick goals to seal the win.
Syracuse outshot North Carolina 22-17 in the second half but was hindered by 15 turnovers and a faceoff deficit, as the Tar Heels won 17 of 27 draws. Goalkeeper Michael Ippoliti made four saves over the final 24 minutes in relief.
Syracuse returns home Saturday, April 11, to face Virginia at 4 p.m. at the JMA Wireless Dome.
Kyle leads sports coverage and hosts the Concrete Jungle podcast. Have a lead or question? Send it to [email protected].