Syracuse University (6-9-2, 0-8-1) and Boston College (11-5-2, 3-4-2) will clash in an important matchup to conclude their respective regular seasons on Thursday evening. The game is set to kick off at the Newton Campus Field at 7:00 p.m., providing an exciting atmosphere for spectators. Admission to this thrilling event is completely free, making it accessible to all fans who wish to support their teams.
The Syracuse-Boston College Series
The historic rivalry between the Eagles and the Orange has seen Boston College hold an 11-4-2 lead in their all-time series. The two programs first competed against each other back in 1996, marking the inaugural year of women’s soccer at Syracuse. In their last meeting in 2022, Boston College secured a narrow victory with a 1-0 scoreline.
Syracuse Status
The Orange recently faced a setback against Miami, falling 3-1 last Thursday night despite a valiant effort. Ashley Rauch managed to equalize for Syracuse with a goal in the second half, but the Hurricanes responded with two more goals, sealing the match. Currently, Ashley Rauch is the leading scorer for Syracuse, with five goals to her name. Close behind is Erin Flurey with four goals. Additionally, Ava Uribe leads the squad with four assists, showcasing her playmaking abilities. Goalkeeper Shea Vanderbosch continues to shine; her exceptional performance has her leading the ACC with 89 saves and an impressive save average of 6.36 saves per game.
Boston College
In contrast, the Eagles head into this match on a high note, having recently triumphed over Miami with a decisive 3-0 victory last Sunday. The Boston College offense is spearheaded by forwards Paige Peltier and Aislin Streicek, both of whom have tallied six goals and accumulated a solid 15 points this season. Wiebke Willebrandt has been a reliable presence in goal, having started all 17 matches and maintaining a goals-against average of 1.17, reflecting her defensive skill and consistency.
Notable Numbers
- Senior Kylen Grant aims for her team-best 56th consecutive start on Thursday night, demonstrating her durability and commitment.
- Goalkeeper Shea Vanderbosch needs just two more saves to tie for 10th place on Syracuse’s single-season saves leaderboard. She currently has 89 this season, just shy of Brittany Anghel’s 91 saves recorded in 2010. The all-time single-season record stands at 138 saves, established by Katie Karlander in 2000.
- A total of four players from Syracuse have been consistent forces this fall, starting all 17 contests: Anna Croyle, Flurey, Grant, and Uribe.
**Interview with Sports Analyst Jane Smith on the Syracuse-Boston College Matchup**
**Editor:** Welcome, Jane! The Syracuse Orange are set to face off against the Boston College Eagles in an important regular-season finale. What are your thoughts on this matchup?
**Jane Smith:** Thank you for having me! This game is particularly crucial for Syracuse, as they’re looking to end their season on a high note. With a record of 6-9-2 and a tough stretch in conference play, they need to build some momentum going into the offseason.
**Editor:** Boston College has a strong track record against Syracuse, leading the all-time series. How do you think that will impact the game?
**Jane Smith:** Absolutely, history often plays a role in these matchups. Boston College holds an 11-4-2 lead in the series, which undoubtedly gives them a psychological edge. However, Syracuse has shown they can compete. Their recent match against Miami, despite the loss, showcased their resilience, particularly with Ashley Rauch’s equalizing goal.
**Editor:** Speaking of the atmosphere, this game offers free admission. How important do you think this is for boosting attendance and team morale?
**Jane Smith:** Free admission is a fantastic way to enhance community support! It not only increases attendance but also fosters a lively atmosphere that can energize the players. With both teams vying for pride and a chance to finish the season strong, having a good crowd can significantly impact their performance.
**Editor:** What do you expect to see in terms of strategy from both teams?
**Jane Smith:** I think Boston College will likely come out aggressive given their successful season so far. They want to capitalize on their current form to secure a better position in the rankings. Syracuse, on the other hand, might focus on a strong defensive strategy while trying to exploit any weaknesses in Boston’s play. Expect them to take risks, especially in front of their home crowd.
**Editor:** what’s your prediction for the outcome of this game?
**Jane Smith:** It’s tough to predict, but I’d give a slight edge to Boston College given their history and season performance. However, if Syracuse can harness their home advantage and find their rhythm early, this could be a closely contested match. I wouldn’t be surprised if it ends with a narrow score, much like their last meeting.
**Editor:** Thanks, Jane! It sounds like it’s going to be an exciting match. Let’s hope for a thrilling finish to the regular season!
**Jane Smith:** Absolutely! Looking forward to it!