The Pitt women’s soccer team has been dominating the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) this season, winning six out of seven games and ranking second in the standings. The Panthers extended their winning streak to four games this past weekend, defeating Boston College and Syracuse with impressive performances.
Panthers overpower Eagles 3-0
On Saturday night, the Panthers hosted the Boston College Eagles at the Petersen Sports Complex and delivered a convincing 3-0 victory. The Panthers controlled the game from start to finish, outshooting the Eagles 19-6 and creating several chances to score.
The first goal came in the 18th minute, when senior midfielder Chloe Minas curled a free kick from 25 yards out into the top corner of the net. It was Minas’ third goal of the season and her second from a set piece. The Panthers doubled their lead in the 36th minute, when junior forward Amanda West dribbled past two defenders and slotted a low shot past the goalkeeper. West is the leading scorer in the ACC with 10 goals and 23 points.
The Panthers continued to dominate in the second half, adding a third goal in the 64th minute. Sophomore forward Sarah Schupansky received a through ball from West and chipped it over the advancing goalkeeper. Schupansky has six goals and four assists this season, forming a lethal partnership with West up front.
The Panthers’ defense was also solid, keeping a clean sheet for the fourth time this season. Senior goalkeeper Katherine Robinson made three saves and was well supported by her back line. The Panthers have only conceded five goals in seven ACC games, the second-best defensive record in the conference.
Panthers edge Orange 2-1
On Sunday afternoon, the Panthers traveled to Syracuse to face the Orange in a tight contest. The Panthers had to overcome a one-goal deficit and a red card to secure a 2-1 win and maintain their momentum.
The Orange took the lead in the 24th minute, when senior midfielder Kate Hostage scored from a corner kick. The Panthers responded quickly, equalizing in the 28th minute. West scored her 11th goal of the season with a powerful header from a cross by junior midfielder Anna Rico.
The game turned in favor of the Panthers in the 54th minute, when Syracuse sophomore defender Jenna Tivnan was sent off for a second yellow card. The Panthers took advantage of their numerical superiority and scored the winning goal in the 71st minute. Schupansky scored her seventh goal of the season with a low shot from inside the box after a pass by West.
The Panthers had to play with 10 players for the final 10 minutes, as Rico was shown a red card for a foul on Syracuse senior forward Meghan Root. However, the Panthers held on to their lead and secured their sixth ACC win of the season.
Panthers look ahead to next challenges
The Pitt women’s soccer team has been impressive this season, showing great chemistry, creativity and resilience. The Panthers have scored 22 goals and conceded only six in seven ACC games, earning 18 points and trailing only Florida State in the standings.
The Panthers have four more regular season games left, including two against ranked opponents: No. 5 Duke and No. 3 Virginia. The Panthers will face Duke on Thursday night at home, hoping to extend their winning streak and challenge for the ACC title.
The Pitt women’s soccer team has also earned national recognition, ranking No. 17 in the United Soccer Coaches poll and No. 15 in the RPI rankings. The Panthers are aiming to make their first NCAA tournament appearance since 2015 and compete with the best teams in the country.
