The Syracuse men’s soccer team overcame an early deficit Saturday, earning a 1-1 draw against Virginia at SU Soccer Stadium. The Orange moved to 7-6-2 overall and 1-4-2 in ACC play, while the Cavaliers finished the afternoon at 7-6-2 and 3-3-1 in conference competition.
Sabres squander early two-goal lead as former teammate Alex Tuch lifts Capitals to overtime victory Virginia struck first in the 16th minute when Samuel Oulouheu found the back of the net without an assist, putting the Cavaliers ahead early in the opening half.
Syracuse responded before halftime, capitalizing on an offensive opportunity to bring the match level.
Bryson Rodriguez scored his fourth goal of the season in the 41st minute, finishing a play set up by Nathan Scott and Gabriel Oksanen.
The equalizer sent both teams into halftime tied, setting up a competitive second half.
Syracuse generated consistent offensive pressure after the break, recording nine shots and earning five corner kicks over the final 45 minutes.
Despite creating several opportunities, the Orange could not find a go-ahead goal against Virginia goalkeeper Caleb Tunks, who finished with three saves.
Pedro Gulli led Syracuse’s offensive effort with three shots, including two on target.
Defensively, Syracuse goalkeeper Juan Martinez-Bastidas played the entire 90 minutes and recorded three saves to keep the Cavaliers from reclaiming the lead.
Neither team managed to break the deadlock in the closing minutes, leaving both sides with a point in the ACC standings.
The Orange will conclude their regular season Friday, October 30, when they travel to Blacksburg to face Virginia Tech. Kickoff is scheduled for 5 p.m.
Kyle leads sports coverage and hosts the Concrete Jungle podcast. Have a lead or question? Send it to kyle@fingerlakes1.com.
