WILLIAMSTOWN, MA – The Williams College Ephs (11-0, 8-0 NESCAC) extended their undefeated season with a 3-0 victory over Hamilton College (7-6, 3-5 NESCAC) securing their eighth conference win. Ranked #1 nationally in the NCAA DIII National Power Ranking, the Ephs now own an impressive 11-0 record overall as well as 8-0 in the NESCAC under head coach
Alix Barrale.
The Ephs dominated the game, out shooting Hamilton 20-8 and earning 9 penalty corners to Hamilton's 2. Williams' relentless offensive play and solid defense kept Hamilton off the scoreboard, while their offense earned them 3 goals across the match.
The game began with Williams quickly applying pressure on Hamilton's defense. At 8:49, Kiki Higgins fired the first shot on goal, but it was saved by Hamilton goalie Abby Griffin. Another shot by Natalia Nolan was blocked soon after. As the quarter came to a close, Williams earned a penalty stroke, and Pilar Torres capitalized, scoring at 14:20 to put the Ephs ahead 1-0.
Williams continued their offensive dominance in the second quarter, showcasing multiple scoring attempts. Despite several saves by Abby Griffin, Williams persisted. At 22:24, Kiki Higgins found the back of the net off a penalty corner from Linda Bibeau, marking her sixth goal of the season and extending the Ephs' lead to 2-0.
Hamilton's defense stepped up in the third quarter, making it challenging for Williams to further their lead. The Ephs earned a penalty corner at 43:47, but Hamilton goalie Kelly Janssen saved a shot by Pilar Torres, keeping the score at 2-0.
Williams continued to press in the fourth quarter, creating numerous scoring opportunities. At 54:27, Madeline Rowland, assisted by Kiki Higgins, scored her fourth goal of the season, solidifying Williams' 3-0 lead. Despite Hamilton's defensive efforts, the Ephs remained relentless, with several shots blocked or saved before time was up.
"So proud of our team pulling out another fantastic win against a formidable opponent like Hamilton.
Ellie Smith had a couple of sensational saves in clutch moments.This team is the real deal!" said head coach Barrale.
The Ephs' next match is Saturday Saturday when they take on Salisbury University at Princeton University.
