The Cornell men’s soccer team secured a 2-1 victory over Syracuse on Tuesday night at Berman Field in Ithaca. This win brings Cornell’s season record to 10-2-1, while Syracuse’s record moves to 6-6-2.
Cornell’s goals came from Westin Carnevale, who scored on a penalty kick, and Blake Donahue, who netted the game-winner. Andrew Johnson provided the assist for Donahue’s goal. Goalkeeper Ryan Friedberg made one save and recorded his 10th win of the season.
The match started with both teams showing strong defensive tactics, resulting in limited shooting opportunities. Syracuse took the lead in the 26th minute, converting a free-kick into the first goal of the game.
“I thought we were unlucky to go in at halftime one goal down. We created enough good looks in the first half but couldn’t capitalize,” said John Smith, the Dr. Daniel P. Wood Head Coach of Men’s Soccer.
Carnevale equalized for Cornell in the 62nd minute with a penalty kick. Donahue then scored in the 77th minute after a series of shots on goal, giving Cornell a 2-1 advantage. Syracuse increased its offensive pressure in the final 15 minutes, but Cornell maintained its lead.
“We did a great job staying patient in the second half and continued to ask questions of them. Our patience paid off with two good goals from Westin and Blake,” Smith said.
“Now we get to solely focus on the rest of the Ivy League slate beginning with a great matchup against Brown where we celebrate a fantastic group of seniors,” Smith added.
Cornell will next face the Brown Bears for senior night at Berman Field, with kickoff scheduled for 4:00 p.m. The game will be broadcast on ESPN+.
