Game Recap: Syracuse Orange vs. University of Tampa

Date: March 8th, 2025 

Time: 1:15 p.m. 

Location: Community First Igloo, Jacksonville, Florida

The Syracuse Orange secured an impressive victory over the University of Tampa in a thrilling 60-minute battle, finishing with a 3-2 win. The game was filled with intense moments and highlight-reel plays, showcasing the resilience and skill of both teams. Ultimately, it was the Orange’s top line and stellar goaltending from Emma Lacz that helped propel Syracuse to the win.

First Period: 

The game started strong for Syracuse with a quick strike from K.J. Jacobs where she netted the opening goal, her second of the playoffs, with assists from Eve Chace and Elise Herrick. The Orange came out with high energy, controlling the puck early and setting the tone for the rest of the game. Despite Tampa's best efforts, Syracuse held on to a 1-0 lead heading into the second period.

Second Period: 

Tampa fought back hard in the middle frame. Drew Duculon tied the game with a well-executed goal, assisted by Megan Neylon and Annaka Gendron. However, Syracuse wasn’t rattled. Leah Landry put the Orange back on top with a great individual effort, assisted by Jordan Boron. The game continued to be a back-and-forth affair, but it was Syracuse that would seize the momentum once more.

With less than three minutes remaining in the period, Neve Padulo scored what would turn out to be the game-winning goal, assisted by Ivy Dietrich and Bry Treon. The Orange went into the final period with a 3-1 lead.

Third Period: 

Tampa mounted a comeback attempt early in the third period. Ava Johnson scored a breakaway goal, unassisted, to bring the score to 3-2. The Spartans kept pressing for the equalizer, but Emma Lacz stood tall in net, making crucial saves in the final minutes. Despite a flurry of chances for Tampa, Lacz and the Syracuse defense held firm, and the Orange finished the game with the 3-2 victory.

Key Takeaways:

• K.J. Jacobs continued her strong play with a key goal in the first period.

• Emma Lacz was a true standout, earning the AAU 1st first star with a brilliant performance, especially in the final moments. She kept her composure when Tampa was pushing for the tie and made some critical saves to preserve the lead.

• Syracuse’s Neve Padulo and Leah Landry stepped up with timely goals to give the team a lead they wouldn’t relinquish.

With this win, Syracuse remains undefeated in their quest for the 2025 AAU National Championship. Tomorrow, the Orange will rematch the University of Tampa at 9:30am, and it promises to be another thrilling contest. Don’t miss what will surely be a can't-miss matchup as Syracuse looks to claim the title.

Final Score:

Syracuse Orange 3 – University of Tampa 2

Next Game:

March 9th, 2025 at 9:30 a.m.

AAU National Championship

Community First Igloo, Jacksonville, Florida