CHAPEL HILL, NORTH CAROLINA - North Carolina (11-6-0) continued their strong home form with a convincing 4-2 victory over Syracuse (5-9-4) on Sunday afternoon at Dorrance Field. The Tar Heels dominated possession and created numerous scoring opportunities in front of 2,347 spectators.
Olivia Thomas opened the scoring for North Carolina in the 15th minute with a well-placed shot to the low center of the goal. Thomas doubled the lead in the 20th minute after connecting with a precise pass from Hope Munson. Syracuse's Vita Naihin pulled one back in the 27th minute off an Ashley Rauch assist, but Linda Ullmark restored the two-goal advantage in the 35th minute with Munson recording her second assist of the match. Kate Faasse extended North Carolina's lead in the 38th minute, assisted by Bella Devey, before Mia Klammer scored Syracuse's second in the 55th minute.
The first half showcased North Carolina's attacking prowess, with the Tar Heels recording 12 shots to Syracuse's single attempt. Bella Devey tested the Syracuse defense early with a shot in the 5th minute that sailed high. The home side's pressure resulted in four corner kicks before halftime, while their defensive organization limited Syracuse's opportunities to counter.
Syracuse showed more attacking intent after the break, with Mia Klammer's 55th minute strike providing hope for a comeback. However, North Carolina's defense, anchored by Linda Ullmark, maintained composure under pressure. The Tar Heels continued to create chances, with Bella Gaetino forcing a save in the 84th minute. A yellow card to North Carolina in the 70th minute for dissent marked the match's only disciplinary action.
The final statistics highlighted North Carolina's dominance, outshooting Syracuse 21-3 overall, with 10 shots on target compared to Syracuse's 2. The Tar Heels earned 6 corner kicks to Syracuse's 2, while the Orange's goalkeeper recorded 6 saves in a busy afternoon.
Hope Munson's two assists demonstrated her playmaking abilities, while Olivia Thomas's first-half brace set the tone for North Carolina's attack. Syracuse's Ashley Rauch showed creativity in the final third, contributing an assist despite limited opportunities. Vita Naihin and Mia Klammer displayed clinical finishing for the Orange, converting two of their three total shots.
Tactically, North Carolina's high-pressing system disrupted Syracuse's build-up play, forcing turnovers in dangerous areas. The Tar Heels' width in attack, particularly through Bella Devey and Kate Faasse, created consistent problems for Syracuse's defensive structure. The Orange attempted to counter through quick transitions but struggled to maintain sustained possession against North Carolina's aggressive midfield pressure.
The victory extends North Carolina's positive momentum following their midweek setback against Miami, while Syracuse's challenging season continues with their third consecutive defeat. The Tar Heels' ability to create and convert chances showcased why they remain a formidable force in ACC play, despite some inconsistent results this season.
Looking ahead, North Carolina will aim to maintain their attacking form when they host NC State on October 30th at 8:00 PM. Syracuse's search for their second conference win continues as they look to regroup from this defeat and find more consistency in their offensive output.