Syracuse women's soccer falls at Clemson after late chances denied

Syracuse women’s soccer came up short Thursday night, falling 2-0 to Clemson at Historic Riggs Field. The Orange dropped to 3-4-2 overall and 0-2-0 in Atlantic Coast Conference play, while Clemson improved to 5-2-2 and 1-1-0.

Also read

Josh Allen accounts for five touchdowns as Bills open new Highmark Stadium with win over Lions (full coverage)

The Tigers controlled much of the opening half, putting 12 shots toward the Syracuse goal and earning five corner kicks. Junior goalkeeper Maya Naimoli kept Clemson off the scoreboard with three saves before halftime, sending the teams into the break tied 0-0.

Clemson continued to apply pressure early in the second half, but Naimoli made another important stop on Natalie Brooks less than five minutes after halftime. Syracuse sophomore forward Ali Howard created a chance at the other end, although her attempt missed the target.

The Tigers finally broke through in the 67th minute when Alessandra Washington set up Taylor Lieb for the opening goal. Lieb’s finish marked her third goal of the season.

Syracuse generated more opportunities during the final 20 minutes. Julia Dening had a shot blocked, while Chloe Joseph put an attempt on goal that Clemson goalkeeper Nona Reason turned away. Freshman Emery Streets also came close, heading a corner kick just over the crossbar with 13:15 remaining.

The Orange nearly pulled level in the closing minutes. Joseph carried the ball forward on the right side before sending a cross toward the box, where junior Gabby Wisbeck redirected it with a header. Reason made the save with 2:44 remaining to preserve Clemson’s lead.

Syracuse women’s soccer falls at Clemson after late chances denied