Cornell women’s soccer saw an early lead disappear Sunday afternoon as Pittsburgh scored twice after halftime to hand the Big Red a 2-1 loss at Berman Field.
Cornell fell to 2-2-0 on the season, while Pittsburgh improved to 4-1-1. The Big Red controlled the match early and took a 1-0 advantage in the 12th minute when senior midfielder and co-captain Emily Gibbons finished from the top of the goal area. Senior forward Alanna Colbert provided the assist after junior midfielder Lauren DiPierri intercepted a Pittsburgh pass at midfield to spark the attack.
The goal was Gibbons’ third of the season and her fourth in her last five appearances dating back to last season.
Cornell maintained its advantage through halftime, but Pittsburgh quickly changed the momentum after the break. Katie Ellermeyer converted a penalty kick in the 51st minute, ending freshman goalkeeper Sofia Kerrigan’s shutout streak at 151 minutes and 11 seconds.
The Panthers then completed the comeback in the 67th minute. Sage Stelzer sent a cross into the box that Lola Abraham redirected toward Doheny, who finished with her left foot to give Pittsburgh the lead.
Kerrigan kept Cornell within striking distance throughout the second half, making a season-high six saves. She made several key stops as Pittsburgh generated nine shots after halftime.
The Big Red created opportunities of its own late. Junior midfielder Ella Koschineg tested Pittsburgh goalkeeper Elli Johnson with a free kick in the 76th minute, but Johnson made the save. Cornell earned its lone corner kick in the 87th minute but could not find an equalizer.
Pittsburgh finished with advantages of 14-8 in shots, 8-5 in shots on goal and 6-1 in corner kicks.
Cornell will begin a four-match road stretch Thursday, September 3, against Central New York rival Colgate. Kickoff in Hamilton is scheduled for 6 p.m.
Kyle leads sports coverage and hosts the Concrete Jungle podcast. Have a lead or question? Send it to kyle@fingerlakes1.com.