MIDDLETOWN, Conn. – The Williams College Ephs (10-0, 7-0 NESCAC) extended their undefeated streak with a 2-1 win over Wesleyan University (8-4, 3-4 NESCAC) TODAY, claiming their seventh consecutive NESCAC victory. EPH Field hockey's 7-0 start in the NESCAC this year is the best start ever by the team in the
Alix Barrale era, which dates all the way back to 2000. The Ephs had started 6-0 before, but never 7-0.The game was a fierce battle, with both teams showing resilience and tactical skill, but the Ephs' strong offensive pressure and solid defense ultimately secured the win.
The first quarter saw Williams dominate the offensive play with a flurry of penalty corners. Early on, Linda Bibeau took two consecutive corners at 3:41 and 4:33, setting up opportunities for the Ephs. Williams continued to press forward, with a shot by Meaghan Boehm being blocked, followed by more pressure from Haley McAuslin and shots from Pilar Torres and Madeline Rowland, both saved by Wesleyan's goalie, Audrey Pace. Despite their aggressive play, the first quarter ended 0-0.
In the second quarter, the Ephs broke the deadlock. At 23:09, Madeline Rowland capitalized on a chance and scored the first goal of the game, giving Williams a 1-0 lead. The Ephs had another penalty corner opportunity at 27:43, but they couldn't add to their lead before the halftime whistle. The quarter ended 1-0 in favor of Williams.
The third quarter saw Williams extend their lead. At 31:38, Kiki Higgins found the back of the net with an assist from Anna Miller, putting the Ephs up 2-0. The Ephs continued to control the game, but Wesleyan's defense held strong, preventing any further goals in the period.
In the fourth quarter, Wesleyan mounted a comeback attempt. At 50:16, Brooke Miner scored on a penalty stroke, marking her first goal of the season and cutting Williams' lead to 2-1. Wesleyan pushed for an equalizer, but Williams held firm, with a blocked shot by Rowland and a penalty corner by Bibeau at 57:23 helping to seal the win.
Statistically, Williams dominated the game with 10 total shots to Wesleyan's 6, and the Ephs also earned 7 penalty corners compared to Wesleyan's 6. The Ephs' defense, supported by 2 saves, was crucial in maintaining their lead as Wesleyan managed 5 saves from goalie Audrey Pace to keep the game close.
After the game Eph head coach
Alix Barrale stated, "Very exciting match up today. We played very well all over the field. Proud of our effort and determination. We are Little Three champions for the second straight year."
Williams will return to action on Wednesday at 6:00 p.m. when they take on Hamilton at home on Williamson Field in another important NESCAC matchup.
