Despite a strong second-half push and a gritty performance on the road, the Pitt-Greensburg women's soccer team fell just short in a 2-1 loss to Franciscan University on Wednesday evening at Trinity Health System Field.

After a scoreless first half, the match came to life in the final 45 minutes. Franciscan struck first in the 56th minute when Kierra Wilson found the back of the net off a feed from Teaghan Elmore. The Bobcats responded with relentless pressure, outshooting the Barons 10-8 in the second half.

Pitt-Greensburg's persistence paid off in the 80th minute when a scramble in front of the net led to a team goal, leveling the match at 1-1. However, Franciscan regained the lead just six minutes later when Catherine DeWolf capitalized on a loose ball in the box to score the game-winner in the 86th minute.

Freshman goalkeeper Kira Howcroft was a standout for the Bobcats, recording eight saves on the night, including several key stops to keep the match within reach. Offensively, Abigail Ault and Sarah Folmer led the attack with three shots apiece, while Sydney Hares, Maya Wertelet, and Shaylene Ceruti each registered shots on goal.

The Bobcat women return home Saturday to host the Presidents from W&J. Kickoff is set for 2pm.