The NC State women’s soccer team fell 2-1 to Pitt on Saturday evening in what was a tough road loss for the Pack. 

The loss showcased an offensive struggle for the Pack (6-5-4, 1-2-4 ACC) as the team outshot Pitt on goal 12-2, with Pitt (5-7-3, 2-3-2 ACC) being able to finish both of its chances. 

After coming off of two ties against top-ranked opponents, No. 1 Virginia and No. 20 Virginia Tech, Pitt will sit as the Pack’s worst loss so far in ACC play.

The first goal of the game arrived in the 20th minute, with a header by midfielder Celia Lopez. Shortly after, Pitt was able to improve its lead to 2-0, with a volley into the net by defender Vildan Kardesler in the 29th minute.

The Pack was able to respond with a goal in the 40th minute by freshman forward Leyah Hall-Robinson, her second goal of the season, with a header into the net off a corner kick taken by redshirt sophomore Lulu Guttenberger. However, while the Pack was able to cut the Panther’s lead in half, it was not able to grab any more goals in the match.

Coming out into the second half, the defense remained solid, allowing no goals or large scoring opportunities all half. The offense attacked the Panthers with 17 shots and four corners, fighting until the final seconds, but overall came out of the match with no points.

Senior midfielder Tziarra King was tightly covered by the Panther’s defense, leaving her unable to finish any chances throughout the match.

The Pack has been suffering from a scoring drought, not being able to score more than one goal in each of its past six ACC games, with the only exception of Boston College. Pitt goalkeeper Amaia Pena was no help for the Pack, with an outstanding performance of 11 saves, leading her team to its victory. 

As the Pack moves forward in ACC play, it must work to finish chances. With conference play coming to an end in October and the ACC tournament beginning shortly after, it leaves the Pack with only three more games to prepare for the tournament and find its groove once again.

The Pack will return home and be back in action versus Syracuse on Oct. 24 as it continues ACC play and will look for its second ACC victory.