SYRACUSE, NEW YORK — Hofstra defeated Syracuse 2-0 on Thursday in the NCAA Division I Championship, dominating the Orange before 670 spectators with efficient first-half finishing that proved decisive.
Laurie Goddard opened the scoring in the 18th minute, giving the Pride (13-5) an early advantage. Daniel Burko doubled the lead in the 25th minute with an assist from Goddard, establishing a commanding cushion that Syracuse never threatened.
Hofstra's offensive efficiency contrasted sharply with Syracuse's volume-based approach. The Pride converted two of seven shots on goal from 13 total attempts, while Syracuse managed just three shots on goal despite 18 attempts. Hofstra's goalkeeper made three saves to preserve the shutout, while Syracuse's keeper recorded five stops.
Syracuse made four halftime substitutions attempting to shift momentum, but the adjustments failed to generate the needed offensive spark. Despite pressing forward in the second half and earning six corner kicks to Hofstra's four, the Orange (9-8-3) could not break through the visitors' organized defense.
Tim Brdaric (32') and Chimere Omeze (58') received yellow cards for Syracuse, while Evangelos Chrysostomou (44') was cautioned for Hofstra.
The victory advances Hofstra's tournament run while ending Syracuse's championship hopes following their ACC Championship victory earlier in November. Hofstra now plays #1 Vermont.