Utica, N.Y. -- The University of Pittsburgh at Bradford men's soccer team kicked off their season on Saturday, falling 4-1 at Utica.
The Panthers had the first chance of the game as Spencer Sklar was able to streak down the left wing towards goal. He pulled a pass back towards the 18-yard box, Devin Stowe was not able to control it and the hosts were able to clear. The Panthers would rue the missed opportunity, as just minutes later Utica was able to counter and open the scoring in the third minute. The Pioneers maintained momentum after opening the scoring and eventually doubled their advantage on a headed goal in the 23rd minute.
The Panthers responded quickly, pulling a goal back four minutes later. After clearing a Utica attack, the Panthers were able to counter effectively as Stowe found space in the middle of the field. He played a through ball to Sklar, which set up a two-on-one opportunity. Sklar dribbled towards goal and was taken out in the box on a slide tackle, resulting in a penalty kick. Stowe stepped up and calmly slid a shot into the goal. It was his first of the year and 5th of his career. Pitt-Bradford could not hold onto the momentum as the game headed into halftime, as the Pioneers took advantage of a caromed cross off a defender to slide home their third goal.
After the break, the hosts were able to take advantage of a turnover in the Pitt-Bradford half, intercepting a pass and streaking towards the goal. After a spin move in the box, the striker's shot deflected off a Panther defender and found the corner of the net, putting the Panthers down 4-1. The Panthers only had one opportunity in the 2nd half, as following an interception Bailee Verdill saw his shot blocked by a defender in the 49th minute. Evan Schmidt made four saves in the last 44 minutes of play, keeping the deficit at 3 goals.
Devin Stowe scored the lone goal for the Panthers, converting from the penalty spot in the 27th minute. Spencer Sklar and Bailee Verdill both had shots for the Panthers, with only Sklar's effort forcing a save. Evan Schmidt made 9 saves in the loss.
The Panthers fall to 0-1 as they begin their season with a loss. They will have an immediate opportunity to get into the win column, as they will be right back in action tomorrow as they will stay in Utica to take on SUNY Poly. Kickoff is slated for 12:00 p.m.
