A run to the College Cup two seasons ago did not net the results that Pitt soccer wanted.
Many of the players on a one-time, 2020 national contender learned from experience, and two seasons following a disappointing end to its season, Pitt is heading back to the national semifinal to try to vindicate the situation.
A breakthrough header by Valentin Noel in the 104th minute against Portland let out a release of emotion -- from the 2,200 roaring fans rocking royal and gold on a fall-like, early December day, and especially from Noel, who was so elated that he ran from the left post of the Portland net across the field and over to the near sideline, took off his jersey, and waved it in celebration in front of the screaming faithful.