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Unranked No More: Pitt men’s soccer quickly ascends to No. 3 United Soccer Coaches Poll ranking after 2-0 start

After beginning the season unranked for the first time since 2019, Pitt Men’s Soccer burst into the United Soccer Coaches Poll in a big way on Tuesday, leaping up to No. 3 in the national standings.

Pitt’s national reputation grew further on Wednesday when the TopDrawerSoccer poll dropped: the Panthers debuted at No. 10 after beginning the season unranked.

The Panthers opened their season with a dominant 2-0 performance against then-No. 16 Georgetown.

They took care of business against Mercyhurst on Sunday, another 2-0 win that easily could’ve turned into a blowout. Sitting at 2-0 on the season and with a strong national pedigree after a half decade of postseason success, Pitt skyrocketed through the poll.

Speaking after the team’s upset of Georgetown, senior forward Luis Sahmkow described how he and the team used the initial polling snub as motivation… although like any seasoned veteran, he made it clear that the Panthers are taking things one game at a time.

“Just keep sleeping on us. Just keep sleeping on us, that’s all I’ve got to say,” Sahmkow said.

“We treat every opponent like it’s the national champion, and we want to do our best every single game.”

Although they didn’t receive any first place votes, Pitt clocked in behind just Clemson and Marshall, supplanting rival West Virginia for the No. 3 spot.

Rivalries will be a big theme this week, as the Panthers will head to University Park to take on the Penn State Nittany Lions on Friday.

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John Krysinsky has covered soccer and other sports for many years for various publications and media outlets. He is also author of 'Miracle on the Mon' -- a book about the Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC, which chronicles the club, particularly the early years of Highmark Stadium with the narrative leading up to and centered around a remarkable match that helped provide a spark for the franchise. John has covered sports for Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, DK Pittsburgh Sports, Pittsburgh Sports Report, has served as color commentator on Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC broadcasts, and worked with OPTA Stats and broadcast teams for US Open Cup and International Champions Cup matches held in the US. Krysinsky also served as the Head Men’s Soccer Coach at his alma mater, Point Park University, where he led the Pioneers to the first-ever winning seasons and playoff berths (1996-98); head coach of North Catholic boys (2007-08), associate head coach of Shady Side Academy boys (2009-2014).

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Riverhounds MF Kenardo Forbes

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