Syracuse Beats No. 13 UVA 14-9 in Lacrosse Showdown

Orange bounce back from last week's loss with strong second half performance

Apr. 11, 2026 at 11:34pm

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A fragmented, geometric painting depicting the dynamic movements and competitive spirit of a lacrosse game, with sharp planes of orange, blue, and white intersecting to capture the sport's fast-paced intensity.A cubist interpretation of the intense action and energy of a high-stakes lacrosse matchup between Syracuse and Virginia.Boston Today

The Syracuse Orange men's lacrosse team defeated the 13th-ranked Virginia Cavaliers 14-9 at the Dome on Saturday. Syracuse, now 10-3 on the season, bounced back after last week's loss to North Carolina by outscoring Virginia 7-3 in the second half. Joey Spallina led the Orange with five points, closing in on the school's career points record.

Why it matters

This was an important win for Syracuse as they look to build momentum heading into the postseason. Beating a ranked opponent like Virginia shows the Orange's ability to compete with top teams in the country. The victory also keeps Syracuse in contention for a high seed in the upcoming NCAA tournament.

The details

Syracuse had a strong showing in the clear game, going 20-21 (95.2%) and quickly advancing the ball past midfield. Goalie Jimmy McCool bounced back from a tough outing last week, making 16 saves while only allowing 9 goals. Midfielder Luke Rhoa also had a big game, tying his season-high with 4 points including 3 goals.

  • Syracuse improved to 10-3 on the season with the win on Saturday, April 11, 2026.
  • The Orange were coming off a loss to North Carolina the previous week.

The players

Joey Spallina

A Syracuse attacker who led the team with 5 points in the win, closing in on the school's career points record.

Jimmy McCool

The Syracuse goalie who made 16 saves and only allowed 9 goals, bouncing back from a tough performance the previous week.

Luke Rhoa

A Syracuse midfielder who tied his season-high with 4 points, including 3 goals, in the win over Virginia.

Lars Tiffany

The head coach of the Virginia Cavaliers lacrosse team.

Jake Spallina

A Syracuse short-stick midfielder who helped the team excel in the clear game.

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What they’re saying

“When you make 16 saves, you get a lot of outlets to throw. I thought they got the ball upfield quickly before we could set up our ten man.”

— Lars Tiffany, Virginia Head Coach

“Whatever happens in the last game doesn't matter...obviously the last one wasn't how I would have liked it to be but it doesn't matter.”

— Jimmy McCool, Syracuse Goalie

“McCool making those 16 saves... we're trying to counter punch, but we weren't able to.”

— Lars Tiffany, Virginia Head Coach

What’s next

Syracuse will look to continue their strong play as they prepare for the upcoming NCAA tournament. The team's seeding and matchups will be determined in the coming weeks.

The takeaway

This win over a ranked opponent shows that Syracuse is a force to be reckoned with in men's lacrosse this season. The team's ability to bounce back from a tough loss, get strong goaltending, and receive contributions from multiple players bodes well for their postseason aspirations.