Syracuse opened its 31st season of women’s soccer Thursday night with a 0-0 draw against Villanova at SU Soccer Stadium, as junior goalkeeper Maya Naimoli made a series of crucial saves in her Orange debut to preserve the result.
Naimoli was at her best late, stopping three shots over the final 13:30, including two in the final five minutes. Her biggest save came with 19 seconds remaining, when she used her left foot to deny Villanova’s Dez Zapata on a point-blank attempt.
Syracuse had its best opportunities through sophomore Julia Arbelaez, who recorded four of the Orange’s five shots and both of their shots on goal. Her first attempt, less than nine minutes into the match, was stopped by Villanova goalkeeper Hannah Dickinson. Arbelaez had another strong chance shortly after halftime when a loose ball fell to her following a deflected Syracuse attack, but Dickinson again made the save. Villanova appeared to break through in the second half, but Ryley Dixon’s goal was overturned following video review because of a hand ball.
The Orange controlled much of the early action, earning seven of their eight corner kicks before halftime, but neither team could find the breakthrough.
Naimoli, along with Bree Bridges, Anna Croyle and Jasmine Nixon, played all 90 minutes for Syracuse.
The Orange will remain home Sunday when it hosts Holy Cross at 1 p.m. at SU Soccer Stadium.
Kyle leads sports coverage and hosts the Concrete Jungle podcast. Have a lead or question? Send it to kyle@fingerlakes1.com.