Syracuse women's lacrosse cruises past California

No. 15 Orange defeat Golden Bears 13-3 at home

Published on Mar. 4, 2026

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The Syracuse women's lacrosse team used a balanced offensive attack and strong defense to defeat California 13-3 on Tuesday night at the JMA Wireless Dome. No. 15 Syracuse improved to 3-3 overall and 2-2 in Atlantic Coast Conference play, while holding California (3-4, 1-2 ACC) to its lowest goal total of the season.

Why it matters

This victory helps Syracuse bounce back after a slow start to the season, as they look to build momentum heading into the heart of their ACC schedule. The Orange's dominant defensive performance also highlights their ability to shut down opposing offenses.

The details

Mackenzie Rich led Syracuse with four points, recording her first hat trick with the Orange and adding an assist. Molly Guzik contributed a goal and controlled the draw circle with five draw controls. After California briefly tied the game, Syracuse scored 11 unanswered goals to break the contest open. In total, 11 different Orange players scored in the victory.

  • The game was played on Tuesday night at the JMA Wireless Dome.
  • Syracuse improved to 3-3 overall and 2-2 in ACC play with the win.

The players

Mackenzie Rich

Recorded her first hat trick and added an assist for Syracuse.

Molly Guzik

Contributed a goal and controlled the draw circle with five draw controls.

California

The Golden Bears fell to 3-4 overall and 1-2 in ACC play with the loss.

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What’s next

Syracuse returns to action Friday when it hosts Virginia Tech at the JMA Wireless Dome. Opening draw is scheduled for 5 p.m.

The takeaway

Syracuse's balanced offensive attack and stifling defense led to a decisive victory over California, as the Orange look to build on this performance and continue their climb up the ACC standings.