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Message: [QUOTE="Powellfan, post: 5426267, member: 4819"] In the first game, SU got their butts kicked on non-face-off groundballs. If I did the math correctly (always a question), I believe Harvard picked up eight extra grounders (20 to 12). SU also outshoot the Crimson by 10, but only three more on goal compared to Harvard (27 to 24). With a disparity in saves (13 to nine), that's how Harvard was able to overcome the huge disparity in face-offs. Syracuse HAS to shoot the ball better. Both teams had the same amount of turnovers (15). Of Syracuse's 15 turnovers, the stat keeper said just three were caused by Harvard (thinking that has to be a misprint, but I do think a lot were unforced if I remember the game correctly). While I think it's obviously important that Syracuse protect the ball, it really comes down to shooting with this team. Focus, focus, focus. Luke Rhoa was out for the first contest this year, I think his involvement should boost the Orange. Have to imagine Jimmy McCool will be better than his five save performance against Harvard the first time out as well. But SU can't play the last game against Harvard again, they have to be ready to play a whole new game this time out. Can't assume the same good performances will be replicated and the bad ones dismissed. FOCUS! Lastly, I kind of wonder if SU plays a slow down type of game, given the face-off advantage (which hopefully holds). It's not in SU's DNA, but I think a fast, frenetic up and down plays into Harvard's hands. SU obviously played a slow down game against Duke, which they didn't look totally comfortable doing, so not sure it will actually happen. Still, SU needs to value their possessions and take good shots. Gerry Byrne himself said that the Orange was a final four team this year, after playing that last game. Let's prove him right! [/QUOTE]

Verification: What is a Syracuse fan's favorite color?