Syracuse women’s soccer suffered a tough loss on Sunday afternoon, falling to Virginia Tech 1-0 at SU Soccer Stadium after Hannah Pachan scored with 5:23 remaining. The loss dropped Syracuse to 3-5-2 overall and 0-3-0 in Atlantic Coast Conference play.
Syracuse entered the final minutes of a scoreless match before Virginia Tech finally broke through. Eliana Salama started the winning sequence by sending the ball to Riley Karpinski on the right side. Karpinski carried toward the end line before delivering a cross into the box, where Pachan finished into an open net for her second goal of the season.
The Orange had opportunities to find the breakthrough earlier but could not convert. Moo Galbus recorded the Orange’s first shot on target 15 minutes into the match after receiving a pass from Farrah Stephens-Martin, but Virginia Tech goalkeeper Julianna Trujillo made the save.
Abby Incorvaia created additional chances after halftime, putting two of her three shots on target. Stephens-Martin also tested Trujillo with a second-half attempt.
Syracuse nearly forced overtime in the final seconds. Following a corner kick, the ball fell to Gabby Wisbeck, who moved down the left side before sending a left-footed shot toward goal. Her attempt struck the crossbar with only 22 seconds remaining.
Maya Naimoli kept Syracuse within striking distance throughout the match, making five saves. One of her best stops came early in the first half when she denied Salama after the Virginia Tech forward created space for a clear attempt.
Virginia Tech finished with a 23-10 advantage in shots, including a 6-4 edge in shots on target.
The Orange return to action Thursday, September 24, against Pittsburgh at SU Soccer Stadium. Kickoff is scheduled for 7 p.m.
Kyle leads sports coverage and hosts the Concrete Jungle podcast. Have a lead or question? Send it to kyle@fingerlakes1.com.