WINSTON-SALEM, NORTH CAROLINA - Alex Wood needed just 117 seconds to write the story of Wake Forest's 2-1 victory over Pittsburgh, slotting home Allie Flanagan's precise through ball before a crowd of 1,247 at Spry Stadium.
The early breakthrough set the tone for what became a defensive chess match, with both teams marshaling their resources to protect their lead. Wake Forest's goalkeeper made three crucial saves, while Pittsburgh's keeper made two, as the visitors struggled to find the equalizer.
As the first half wore on, Pittsburgh began to establish their rhythm, orchestrating a series of attacks that tested Wake Forest's defense. Laine DeNatale's 24th-minute goal, assisted by Sierra Sythe, seemed to quell the Panthers' momentum, but they continued to push forward, earning eight corner kicks to Wake Forest's five. The most promising chance came in the 32nd minute when Pittsburgh's Mya Archibald headed wide from close range.
The second half saw Pittsburgh launch a desperate bid to salvage a point, but Wake Forest's defense held firm. The Demon Deacons' backline absorbed the pressure, withstanding wave after wave of Panther attacks. It wasn't until the 75th minute that Pittsburgh finally broke through, courtesy of Archibald's well-taken goal from Margaret Wilde's cross. However, the joy was short-lived, as Wake Forest's lead had been built on two well-crafted goals, and their defense remained resolute.
The statistical ledger reveals a tale of two teams with contrasting styles. Pittsburgh outshot Wake Forest 14-7 overall, but the Demon Deacons matched their opponents in shots on target, with four apiece. The Panthers dominated the corner-kick battle, earning eight opportunities to Wake Forest's five, but failed to capitalize on their set-piece chances.
The victory represents more than three points for Wake Forest; it extends their unbeaten streak to three matches and maintains their fourth-place standing in the conference standings. For Pittsburgh, the loss continues a five-match losing streak, leaving them rooted to the conference basement. Wake Forest's next challenge comes in the form of Notre Dame, while Pittsburgh travels to face Virginia.
Looking ahead, the paths diverge sharply for these two teams. Wake Forest will look to build on their recent form against the Fighting Irish, while Pittsburgh will need to regroup and rediscover their winning formula against the Cavaliers. The Demon Deacons' defensive solidity will be put to the test once again, but their recent results suggest they are more than capable of rising to the challenge.
The afternoon belonged to Wake Forest's frontline, who orchestrated the victory with their precise passing and clinical finishing. As the Demon Deacons look to continue their upward trajectory, they will be buoyed by their recent results and the confidence that comes with performing on the biggest stage.
Key Players:
Alex Wood (Wake Forest) – Slotted home the opening goal with composure, capitalizing on Allie Flanagan's pinpoint through ball to set the tone for the match.
Laine DeNatale (Wake Forest) – Doubled the Demon Deacons' advantage with a well-taken goal, assisted by Sierra Sythe's intelligent delivery from wide.
Mya Archibald (Pittsburgh) – Pulled a goal back for the Panthers with a clinical finish, converting Margaret Wilde's cross with precision.
Allie Flanagan (Wake Forest) – Provided the incisive through ball that unlocked Pittsburgh's defense, allowing Alex Wood to score the opening goal.