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A 2-1 Double OT win over Boston College was enough to get the Syracuse Orange to jump up to the top spot in two of the national rankings. The Nation's coaches seem to believe that our hometown boys are deserving of the best ranking in the country, having placed the Orange at #1 in their poll released today. They move up from the consistent #3 ranking they've been recieving. MLSSoccer.com also put the boys at the top of their power rankings.
Rounding out the National Polls:
NCAA RPI: #8? (Sometimes RPI makes no sense... We win and drop 5 spots...)
With the win, the Orange have clinched the #2 spot in the ACC Tourney. It's a hell of a road since Coach McIntyre took over and these players have deserved every inch that they've earned. They finish the regular season at 14-2-1, with a home loss against top ranked Notre Dame, a road loss to Louisville and a road draw to NC State the only blemishes on a record season for the team.
They won the Atlantic Division on the backs of outstanding play from the back, in Alex Bono, setting records in goal for shutouts and a 0.40 goals against average, and a breakout year from Skylar Thomas, who has turned himself into a strong MLS prospect, being named twice to the Top Drawer Soccer Team of the Week. The defense has only given up 7 goals all year. Think about that one for a minute. 11 clean sheets for Bono.
Up next for the Orange is the winner of NC State and Duke, to be played at Syracuse Soccer Stadium, Sunday at 1. The Athletic Department and Otto's Army are working on a Pack the Hill campaign, and there should be a great crowd out to see the boys through to the semis. Come on out and support the Orange in their run to the Cup.