Offense was the missing piece for the Nittany Lions tonight, as Penn State men’s soccer (4-3-2) fell to No. 19 Akron by a score of 1-0 on the road. Although Penn State held Akron scoreless for 77 minutes, The Zips finally broke through, and Penn State was unable to provide an answer.

How It Happened

The scoreless first half was almost promising for Penn State, as the team showcased its traditionally stout defense and effortless possession of the ball. Akron still proved to be the hungrier team, finishing the contest with 11 shots to Penn State’s three. Penn State goalie Matt Bersano kept the Nittany Lions in the game with a few highlight reel saves sprinkled in throughout the half.

There was only one solution to Penn State’s scoring drought; the team needed to step it up offensively. The Nittany Lions’ defensive efforts managed to stave off goals up until the 77 minute mark, when Akron’s Adam Najem broke the scoreless tie off of a penalty kick.

Tonight’s loss was a reminder that all of the defensive prowess in the world isn’t enough unless you have the offensive support to provide a cushion.

Player Of The Game

Two-time Big Ten Defensive Player of the Week Matt Bersano kept this game much closer than it should have been with his display of textbook goalkeeping. With Akron’s 24 shots to Penn State’s six on the game, it’s nothing short of incredible that Bersano was able to stave off these unrelenting chances.

What’s Next?

Penn State resumes Big Ten play on Oct. 3 when it faces Rutgers in Piscataway at 7 p.m.