Williams Strikes Overtime Win Against Babson College, 1-0.

WILLIAMSTOWN, MA - After an intense battle on the field, the Ephs ( 3-0, 1-0) remained undefeated after claiming victory a 1-0 over time win over third ranked Babson College (3-1, 0-0) this Sunday at Williamson Field. On consecutive days the Ephs downed the #6 ranked team in Tufts 1-0 and now the third ranked team in Babson 1-0.

Williams started off strong, earning a penalty corner within the first minute (0:54). Haley McAuslin set up Laura Ryan for a shot but itnwas saved by Babson's goalie Bayla Furmanek. Despite early pressure from the Ephs, Babson's defense held firm, with Furmanek kicking away a follow-up shot from Kiki Higgins at 7:34. Babson held their ground throughout the quarter, blocking several Williams attacks, including a close-range shot from Pilar Torres. 

The second quarter was a steady back and forth battle, with both teams exchanging opportunities. Williams earned another penalty corner at 16:45 by Haley McAuslin, but it was saved by Furmanek. On the other side, Babson nearly capitalized on their opportunities, but Williams' freshman goalie, Ellie Smith, made a critical saves to keep the game scoreless. Despite multiple attempts by both teams, the halftime score was 0-0. 

Williams applied significant pressure in the third quarter, nearly breaking the deadlock. Babson earned their first penalty corner at 36:44, but it was saved by Ellie Smith. A backhanded attempt from Kiki Higgins and a series of rapid attempts from Pilar Torres and Kiki Higgins around the 42-minute mark were all stopped. Williams showed dominance of possession, but was unable to convert.

The game's intensity carried into the fourth quarter, with Williams relentlessly pushing for the lead. Both Madeline Rowland and Haley McAusline had their shots saved, while Babson had a penalty corner at 53:28, but Smith came through with another save. With both defenses standing strong, the game headed to overtime. 

Finally, at 62:50, Williams broke through. A penalty corner taken by Laura Ryan and was finished by Pilar Torres, who netted her first goal of the season. Kiki Higgins registered her second assist this season and the goal secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory for the Ephs. 

"What an exciting win! So proud of the way we responded to back-to-back games, especially against two of the best teams in the nation. We were composed and determined in overtime, and our corner unit sealed the deal. Awesome team effort!" said Eph head Coach Alix Barrale.

Williams will play their next match on Wednesday, September 11th, when they face Smith College at 6:30 p.m in Northampton, Mass.