The “Big Red Wall” stood strong as the Southern Cayuga boys soccer team upset the sixth-ranked Class B school in the state, Dryden, 4-3 in a Section IV, IAC semifinal game Wednesday.

Dryden's Dan Holland struck first three minutes into the game, putting the Lions up immediately 1-0.

“With (Dryden's) skill and ability it looked like it would be a long night for us,” Southern Cayuga head coach Underwood said.

But the pressure was lessened as Chiefs' defender Lewis Morse put himself on Holland and managed to keep him in check for the rest of the game.

“(Morse) did a tremendous job covering him,” Underwood said. “We definitely turned it around.”

The Chiefs tied the score with a goal from Bill Rejman on an assist from Conner Philip.

“(Philip) was filling in for one of our missing players,” Underwood said. “He had a tremendous game on offense and defense.”

Philip scored the next goal for Southern Cayuga and Casey Underwood followed with an assist on a Zach Vannostrand goal, giving the Chiefs a 3-1 halftime lead..

Joe Rocker added another score in the second half off an assist from Rejman.

Trailing 4-1, Dryden made a late charge but once again, Southern Cayuga's defense brought home the victory.

“Dryden kept putting a tremendous amount of pressure on our defense,” Underwood said. “Our defense stood firm though, they guarded well.”

The Lions led in shots on goal (12-8) and in corner kicks (10-3).

“Dryden controlled the play for most of the game,” Underwood said. “Our defense got a workout but stayed firm.”

Kevin Stockton defended the goal for Southern Cayuga, recording six saves.

“We were missing a couple of key players,” Underwood said. “It is interesting how when we change things up a little it can invigorate the team. We played with fire and passion and I think that put us over their skill.”

The Chiefs travel to Tompkins-Cortland Community College Saturday for the IAC championship game.

“It's nice to get there, especially for a shorthanded team,” Underwood said.

Chiefs 4

Lions 3