Syracuse Shot Parade Falls Short, Upset by Delaware 1-0

Forward Kendra Raypholtz and Blue Hens defender Shea Frost behind the goal in a tight battle for possession.

SYRACUSE, N.Y. – Syracuse Ice Hockey failed to find the back of the net Thursday despite dominating the shot column 40-14.

Forward Kerttu Lehmus firing a shot in the game’s closing moments. Credit: Angelica Lux

Though the Orange controlled the ice, it was Delaware sophomore goaltender Charlotte Payne who earned the 40-save shutout and win.

It was the Orange’s first game without head coach Brian Idalski, who was honoring the other half of his dual commitment – head coach of the Czechia women’s national team.

In Idalski’s absence, Syracuse was challenged to a physical game. After not seeing competition for nearly two weeks, associate head coach Brendan Knight said the Orange had been caught on their heels.

Forward Nina Geric gets tripped up in front of the net. Credit: Angelica Lux

“I just think we weren’t physically engaged in the first half of the game,” he said.

Knight added that even with the vast shot totals, their opportunities weren’t necessarily high percentage.

The teams traded chances throughout the game, but it was the Blue Hens who made the most of their opportunities. With 10:58 to go in regulation, forward Wren Abboud deflected a centering pass from teammate Bailey Gray to beat Syracuse goalie Ava Drabyk.

Goalie Ava Drabyk looks back toward the net after allowing the Blue Hens to score the game’s lone goal. Credit: Angelica Lux

Syracuse falls to 6-3-0 and 4-3-0 in the AHA. They are still seated at second in the conference, but that margin will continue to grow behind No. 7 Penn State.

SU will look to bounce back with another chance against Delaware Friday, Oct. 30 at 3 p.m.