WILLIAMSTOWN, MA- Williams Field Hockey defeated the Connecticut College Camels (3-2) 3-0 on Sunday, improving to 3-2 on the season, 2-2 within NESCAC play.
Led by strong play by Captains Sarah Eades (Charlotte, NC) and Casey Greene (Greenwich, CT), the Ephs earned scoring opportunities early in the first half. Freshman Abigale Belcrest (Harrison Township, MI) was first to score for the Ephs. Belcrest's unconventional shot popped up over Connecticut College goalie, Becca Napolitano, and into the back of the cage at 18:07 in the first half. Shortly after, Casey Greene tallied a second goal for the Ephs off a powerful penalty stroke at 16:35. Both teams played hard and fought for possession for the remainder of the half, with Connecticut putting pressure on Eph goalie Ariana Spiliotes (Bethesda, MD) late in the half.
The Camels came out strong after the break, creating multiple scoring opportunities. Aggressive play by the Eph defense kept the ball out of the Williams goal and back onto the sticks of the Ephs attackers. Freshman Emma Grauberger scored the final goal for the Ephs with 2:54 remaining in the game.
Coach Alix Barrale was happy with the aggressive play of her team, praising the group's ability to make an "180º turnaround from yesterday and make the necessary adjustments" for today's game against the Camels. "The team's passing, communication and hustle all improved and allowed us to get the win, despite the aggressive play by Connecticut College," added Barrale.
The Ephs added three goals to their season tally, adding to their fundraising efforts for Elizabeth's Hope, an effort that Coach Barrale sees as providing perspective and extra motivation for the Ephs.
Williams will return to the field at 6:00pm on Wednesday, September 26th against Springfield.
