Penn State men’s soccer (3-1-1) fell 1-0 to No. 15 Pitt (3-2-0) Monday night at Jeffrey Field. Pitt held possession that the Nittany Lions couldn’t keep up with, although the Nittany Lions pushed offensively more in the second half.

How It Happened

Pitt started off the match with a goal in the sixth minute that Penn State’s backline couldn’t keep up with. Midfielder Rodrigo Almedia hit a ball into the right corner off of a cross by Pitt’s Jasper Loeffelsend. Pitt’s offense dominated the goal box and got past Penn State’s defense.

6': Pitt silences the crowd with an early goal.

Too many Panthers were in the box, and Jasper Loeffelsend's cross was met by Rodrigo Almeida's boot.

— Onward Sports (@OnwardStSports) September 13, 2021

Clearly rattled after Pitt’s fast lead, the Nittany Lions struggled to win back possession until around the 20th minute when Tyger Evans had a great run down the field breaking Pitt’s ankles. Although it didn’t result in a goal, Evans’ run brought the Nittany Lions back into aggressive play.

Pitt held possession through the majority of the first half, while Penn State struggled to hold the intercepted balls long enough to make any shots on the Panthers’ goal. As the second half started, Penn State started to get its footing back and was able to make up some shots it didn’t get the chance to shoot in the first half.

Although Penn State played a slightly better second half, it wasn’t enough for the Nittany Lions to even the score, resulting in the 1-0 loss.

Player Of The Match

Brandon Hackenberg, Center Back

Hackenberg held the backline well in the second half, preventing the Panthers from succeeding in their many shots on goal. Hackenberg’s tackle in the 83rd minute was particularly great for Penn State’s defense.

What’s Next?

The Nittany Lions will continue their three-game home stand Friday, September 17 in a match against Northwestern at 7 p.m.

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