Williamstown, MA – For the first time since the Winter Break, the Williams College Ephs (4-9-0) took the ice at home versus the Albertus Magnus College Falcons (11-7-0). A rematch of the feisty game a few weeks ago, the game was a battle for both teams. Ultimately, behind stellar goaltending and timely scoring, the Ephs would emerge victorious 2-0, with Eph netminder
Cal Sandquist picking up his first collegiate shutout.
The Ephs would be the power of the two teams out of the gate, with the Falcons winning many of the foot-races in the early going.
Cal Sandquist battled off several great chances in the opening half of the frame, and even remained in the play with one eye after an unfortunate situation regarding his contact lens. Williams would prove to be quite oportunistic, as a simple rush down the ice by
Conner Fitzpatrick resulted in a shot towards the net that was tipped home by
Sean Clarke to open the scoring. The Ephs continued the momentum for the next portion of the period, but were plagued with two penalties late that required an immense penalty-killing effort. The defense, and Sandquist, would shut the door to head into the locker room up one goal.
The second period was a much better display from the Ephs. Each of their lines generated chances in the early going, providing relentless pressure on the Falcons goal. Solid defensive shape and aggressive plays resulted in lots of sustained zone time for the Ephs. They would be rewarded with two power plays in the frame. Despite several wide open nets, the man-advantage would result in no goals, but more momentum for the home team. Their efforts culminated in a hard-earned second goal by
Logan Valkama, with
Owen Stadheim and
David Vieten drawing the assists.
The Ephs looked to prove a point in the third period. Last time out against Albertus, Williams conceded two goals early in the frame while in a similar position to today. This time, however, the Ephs would slam the door shut. While the Falcons would dominate much of the puck and shots in the period, the Ephs remained calm and soaked up the pressure. Several chances would go begging for Albertus, with
Cal Sandquist remaining strong in the goal and his defenseman clearing the way for him. As the clock wound down, the Ephs continued to manage the play and ultimately skated to a 2-0 victory, their first of the year at home.
Eph head coach Bill Kangas was proud of the effort tonight saying, "The boys earned it tonight. They came out a bit slow, but stuck to the game plan and played their game. We have been successful this year when we play a simple, quick, and patient game. It is hard to beat a team twice so I am very proud of their compete, they'll need it tomorrow against a very good Plattsburgh team".
The Ephs play host to #3 Plattsburgh tomorrow night with a rare 7pm start time.
