Syracuse Women's Hockey Club Sweeps Norwich in Vermont (11/16-11/17)

Syracuse Women's Hockey Club Triumphs in Vermont with Two Big Wins Against Norwich University

The Syracuse Women’s Hockey Club traveled to Montpelier, Vermont, this weekend to face off against Norwich University in two exciting games. Despite a tough challenge from the Norwich Cadets, Syracuse came out on top in both games, securing victories in thrilling fashion. The games, played on November 16 and 17, showcased a combination of skilled offense, strong defense, and clutch performances, with Syracuse ultimately sweeping the weekend series.

Game 1: Syracuse Battles Back for 4-2 Victory

Date: November 16, 2024, 4:00pm

Location: Kreitzberg Arena

MONTPELIER, VT – The first game of the series saw Syracuse come from behind to win 4-2. The opening period saw a fast-paced, back-and-forth battle, but it was Syracuse that struck first. At 12:44, Leah Landry capitalized on an opportunity to give Syracuse a 1-0 lead, with the assist coming from Neve Padulo. Less than two minutes later, at 11:07, Syracuse doubled their lead when Hannah O'Dowd scored an unassisted goal, making it 2-0. Norwich quickly responded in the second period. The Cadets cut the deficit to one when Brooke-Lynne Choiniere scored an unassisted goal at 3:36. Just 29 seconds later, at 3:07, Norwich’s Caitlyn Slider tied the game at 2-2 with another quick goal. 

In the third period, Syracuse turned up the intensity. Leah Landry, who had already contributed to the team’s earlier success, scored the game-winning goal at 19:00, assisted again by Neve Padulo. Syracuse kept their momentum going, and at 11:47, Ivy Dietrich extended the lead to 4-2, with Padulo picking up another assist. The game ended with Syracuse holding on to their 4-2 lead, and Emma Lacz in net for the full 60 minutes, being named as Syracuse’s player of the game.

Player of the Game: Emma Lacz

Game 2: Syracuse Clinches Another Victory with a 4-1 Win

Date: November 17, 2024, 2:00pm

Location: Kreitzberg Arena

MONTPELIER, VT – The second game of the series was another thrilling contest. Norwich took the early lead with a goal from Caitlin Slider at 5:21 of the first period, giving the Cadets a 1-0 advantage.

However, Syracuse didn’t let the early deficit shake them. The Orange bounced back in the second period when Ivy Dietrich scored an unassisted goal at 7:12, tying the game at 1-1. The game remained tied until the third period, when Syracuse put the game away with a series of clutch goals. At 19:15 of the third period, Leah Landry found the back of the net for the game-winning goal, assisted by Elise Herrick. Syracuse extended their lead when Hannah O'Dowd scored another goal at 8:45, with Herrick picking up her second assist of the period. With just 1:03 left in the game, Amanda Wheeler sealed the victory for Syracuse with a power-play goal, assisted by Neave Sullivan and Julianna Bucci. Syracuse dominated the shot count in Game 2, outshooting Norwich 50-26, with Emma Lacz once again standing strong in goal for all 60 minutes, making 25 saves to preserve the 4-1 win.

Player of the Game: Elise Herrick

Leah Landry's Game-Winning Goals Lead the Way

One of the standout performances of the weekend came from Syracuse captain Leah Landry. The junior forward scored the game-winning goals in both contests, providing the critical spark for her team when they needed it most. Landry’s ability to rise to the occasion and deliver in key moments was a significant factor in Syracuse’s success over the weekend.

Looking Ahead

With these two impressive victories, the Syracuse Women’s Hockey Club continues to build momentum as the season progresses. Their strong performances in Vermont showcased both their offensive firepower and their resilience, especially when facing adversity. As they look ahead to the next phase of their schedule, the team will undoubtedly carry the confidence gained from their strong showing against Norwich.

The Syracuse Women’s Hockey Club’s weekend sweep of Norwich was a testament to the hard work, skill, and determination of the team. With Landry's leadership and Lacz’s consistent play in goal, the Orange are primed for continued success this season.