No. 17 Cornell men’s soccer controlled much of Tuesday night’s match against Pittsburgh but could not turn its offensive pressure into goals, falling 2-0 to the Panthers at Ambrose Urbanic Field at the Petersen Sports Complex.
Cornell dropped to 2-2-0 after being held scoreless despite generating 13 shots, five more than Pittsburgh. The Big Red continued to push for an equalizer throughout the second half, but several quality chances were denied by Pittsburgh goalkeeper Jack Moxom.
Pittsburgh struck first in the 13th minute when Miguel Bertran finished a chance set up by Mamadou Tall and Anders Bordoy. Cornell spent much of the remainder of the match searching for an answer but could not find the breakthrough.
Blake Donahue created several of Cornell’s best opportunities. He recorded five shots and forced Moxom to make saves in the 29th, 54th and 70th minutes. Andrew Miles and Liam May also tested the Pittsburgh goalkeeper late in the match, but Moxom turned away both attempts to keep Cornell off the scoreboard.
The Big Red continued applying pressure as the second half progressed, but Pittsburgh eventually created some separation. Tall scored in the 84th minute, with Bordoy and Cannon Scretchen credited with assists, giving the Panthers a two-goal cushion.
Moxom finished with five saves to complete the shutout, while Cornell goalkeeper Filip Versterre made one save.
Cornell was also assessed two yellow cards, with Dominik Kolbl and Donahue receiving cautions. Pittsburgh had two players booked as well.
The Big Red will have another opportunity to get back on track Saturday when it travels to Western Michigan. Kickoff is scheduled for 1 p.m.
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Kyle leads sports coverage and hosts the Concrete Jungle podcast. Have a lead or question? Send it to kyle@fingerlakes1.com.