Williamstown, MA — As most of the student body left campus, the Williams Men's Lacrosse Team (3-1, 3-0) faced off against #15 Bowdoin College (3-2, 1-2) at home. After an early lead that lasted for the majority of the game, a late goal off the stick of
Calvin Caputo would secure an Ephs' victory as they held off the surging Polar Bears.
The first quarter proved to be a familiar back-and-forth battle to which the Ephs have become accustomed. Finlay MacKnight, Owen Roegge, and Zachary Romrell would all find the net for the Ephs in the opening frame. Despite this, Bowdoin countered with three of their own to begin the second quarter all square.
The Ephs were determined for a better quarter and showed their grit. Calvin Caputo would fire off two quick strikes to separate the two teams. Ryan Johnson and Finlay MacKnight would add some insurance to give the Ephs a four-goal cushion heading into the locker room. Matthew Freitas would be essential in maintaining this lead as he was called upon to make 17 saves in the half.
The Polar Bears would begin to mount some pressure on the Ephs in the third, cutting the lead down to just 3 in the quarter. The Ephs would do well to limit the damage as they answered each Bowdoin strike with a response of their own. Romrell and Macknight would draw the goals for the Ephs as they fought to stay ahead.
Entering the final quarter, the Ephs needed to hold firm to maintain their lead. Despite an early Spencer Goodbar tally to extend the lead to 11-7, Bowdoin would start their charge. They would score three times in four minutes to bring themselves within one. Caputo would add the insurance goal as the Ephs held on for the 12-11 victory at home.
Coach McCormack said this following the win: "I'm really proud that we competed for all four quarters. Our defense and especially Matthew Freitas really kept us in the game. I also thought Finlay MacKnight played a strong game at the offensive end."
