Moon Township, Pa. – The Robert Morris University men's soccer team had several early opportunities to take a lead against the Pitt Panthers, but couldn't capitalize in what would eventually end in a 2-0 loss to the local rival. The Colonials are now 4-5-1 on the season while the Panthers even their record at 3-3-1.
 
RMU had two golden chances to seize the lead in the game's opening 10 minutes. The first came when Neco Brett nailed the crossbar from 12 yards out in the third minute after a cross by Bruce Cullen. Speedy Williams had the next chance in the ninth minute, but his chip attempt sailed over the crossbar after Ryan Vilella had sent him in alone with a through ball.
 
The first real Panthers threat became the game's first goal in the 14th minute. A quick counterstrike ended with Dan Prete feeding a diagonal ball through the Colonials back four where Hamish Law was able to run on to it. Law's shot from 16-yards out deflected off a recovering RMU defender before spinning in. That's where the score would stand into halftime.
 
RMU keeper Brenden Alfery kept the Colonials within striking distance with a spectacular diving save to his left on a six-yard volley by Stephane Pierre in the 52nd minute. Another Colonials scoring chance slipped past when Williams set Brett alone on a goal, but Pitt keeper Dan Lynd was able to close the angle and suffocate the shot.
 
The Panthers took advantage of one of their few second half opportunities when Andrew Wright got the ball deep in RMU territory.  He hit a cross to the center of the box where Dan Prete was all alone for an easy header finish in the 71st minute, a goal that capped the scoring in the game.
 
Alfery finished with five saves for the host Colonials while Lynd made three saves to secure the shutout.
 
The Colonials wrap up non-conference play Sunday, Oct. 5, when George Washington visits North Athletic Complex for a 2:00 p.m. game, the second game of men's and women's soccer doubleheader.