Syracuse Lacrosse: What They Learned Before Monday’s Opener

What Did Syracuse Learn In The Two Exhibitions Leading Up To Monday’s Opener Vs. Le Moyne?

The Orange started its 2023 preseason with two exhibition contests, first against Roberts Wesleyan last weekend, and then against the University of Albany on Tuesday.

Syracuse posted a pair of wins in those games, outscoring its opponents 37-14. While the scores were lopsided in favor of the Orange, there were a number of takeaways for SU heading into the regular season opener against Le Moyne on Monday.

1. Offensive production is still there

Syracuse has a lot of new faces in its lineup, but it didn't skip a beat on the offensive end in the exhibitions. The Orange scored 21 goals against Roberts Wesleyan and 16 against Albany.

This is a good sign for Syracuse, which has been one of the most prolific scoring teams in the country in recent years.

2. The defense is still a work in progress

While the offense was clicking, the defense still has some work to do. Syracuse allowed seven goals to Roberts Wesleyan and seven to Albany.

This is a concern for the Orange, who have been known for their stingy defense in the past. However, it's important to remember that these were just exhibition games, and the defense should improve as the season progresses.

3. The new faces are starting to fit in

Syracuse has a number of new players on its roster this season, and they're starting to find their place in the lineup.

Freshmen Davis Martin and Tristan Mango both scored three goals in the exhibitions, and transfer attackman Jackson Birtwistle added two goals and three assists.

These new players are going to be important for Syracuse this season, and it's good to see them starting to produce.

4. The Orange are still a contender

Despite the loss of several key players from last year's team, Syracuse still looks like a contender in 2023.

The Orange have a lot of talent on both ends of the field, and they should be a force to be reckoned with in the ACC.