Pitt Women’s Soccer Ends Tumultuous Season by Defeating No. 1 Notre Dame
The Panthers women’s soccer team concluded a challenging season with an unexpected victory against No. 1 Notre Dame at Ambrose Urbanic Field. The decisive moment came in the 85th minute when junior defender Mya Archibald headed in a corner kick from senior forward Margaret Wilde, securing the lead.
Key Performance Highlights
- Junior goalkeeper Abby Reisz recorded six saves, showcasing one of her best performances, including a crucial stop early in the first half.
- Junior captain Olivia Lee led the defense to maintain discipline, effectively neutralizing Notre Dame’s usual offensive threat in the penalty area.
Context of the Match
Notre Dame needed only a win or draw to clinch the ACC regular-season title, with the trophy visibly placed under Ambrose Urbanic Field. However, Pitt's team played with determination, refusing to concede and dominate the home field ceremony.
“A team that had put up eight goals in a single match earlier this season was held scoreless by an underdog Pitt squad that refused to watch a trophy presentation on their home field.”
Historical Significance
This match marked the first time in program history that Pitt women's soccer defeated a No. 1 ranked team.
Season Summary
Despite the final victory, Pitt’s season was difficult, finishing with a 6-10-2 overall record and only two wins in ACC play, struggling with consistency in a highly competitive conference.
Author’s summary: Pitt women’s soccer defied expectations by stunning No. 1 Notre Dame in their first-ever win over a top-ranked team, ending a tough season on a victorious note.