PITTSBURGH – The men's soccer team traveled to Pitt for the second consecutive season. Alvar Silva netted an early goal to give Mercyhurst the lead. However, Pitt's second-half goal would be the decider in a 2-1 defeat for the Lakers.

The Lakers wasted no time getting on the scoresheet as Alvar Silva received the ball in the Panther's final third and took some space before playing a pass out wide to Jalen Jackson-Tyus. Jackson-Tyus made a quick move and played a perfect pass into the foot of Silva who calmly placed the ball in the bottom left corner of the net. This was Silva's first goal of the season and gave the Lakers an early lead just seven minutes into the match. 

Jared Rimmer made a goal-line clearance in the 27th minute to help the Lakers hold on to their lead. The Panthers responded with a series of corner kicks and missed opportunities. They did not capitalize on their chances until a late goal in the 42nd minute, leveling the match at the break.

Pitt quickly extended their lead with a goal in the 54th minute. Despite efforts from Mercyhurst to regain control, including a crucial save by Gonzalo Onrubia, Pitt's offensive prowess proved challenging. The Panthers sealed the game with a goal in the 79th minute. Pitt almost put the nail in the coffin in the final five minutes, but Benjamin Buckley threw his entire body on the line to prevent a third goal.

The Lakers were unable to close the gap as the match concluded with a 2-1 defeat.

Mercyhurst has the rest of the week off before heading to LIU on Sunday, Sept. 28.