Syracuse Men's Soccer: Week 2 Recap

Syracuse headed on a nice New York/New Jersey Road trip this weekend. The ride to Piscataway had them heading to NYC with a 1-0 victory over the Scarlet Knights. Then they decided to come home with another 1-0 win to make an easy ride back to Syracuse.

Syracuse controlled the game against Rutgers from the opening kick, notching 8 shots, 6 on goal in the opening half. Rutgers through some fine goalkeeping kept it even to the break. After the half, play went back and forth, with the Orange taking advantage of some set-piece work in the 79th that lead to the game winner. The all-Norwegian combination of Alseth to Ekblom (2) lead to a flick on header in the back of the net. Bono was tested more in this game than his first two combined, being forced into 6 saves. He and the defense were up to the task and preserved the clean sheet and victory.

Heading north to Queens, the Orange faced a St. John's side that was hit right off the bat with a Chris Nanco finish in the seventh minute, his second on the year. The Orange dominated possession and play going into the half, but weren't able to capitalize again. Coming out of the break it was no different, Syracuse recording another three shots on target, generating pressure on six corner kicks. Alex Bono required minimal action but showed up when needed. Two saves recorded led to his fourth clean sheet of the year, and 22nd career shutout, placing him second on the all time list at Syracuse.

Chris Nanco's Game-Winning Goal at St. John's - Syracuse Men's Soccer (via Syracuse Orange)

Syracuse is now garnering some national attention coming off of four straight clean sheet victories. They're now ranked #17 by TopDrawerSoccer.com and #22 in College Soccer News's rankings. Keeper Alex Bono also gained some recognition on the College Soccer News National Team of the Week for his performances.

The big one looms on Saturday, at home, 7:00pm. Syracuse takes on #1 Notre Dame (2-0-1). There should be a big crowd, so head on out and check it out. I know some of the American Outlaws will be in attendance and adding to the atmosphere. Get up there early, tailgate a little, enjoy some top quality college soccer. They'll be giving away a signed New England Revolution Jersey during the game as well, so that's fun.