Ephs shut out by Bowdoin, 1-0
Brunswick, ME. — Despite a strong performance by Eph goalie Katrina Tulla (New Canaan, CT) and a number of good shot opportunities in the opening and closing minutes of the competition, Williams didn't play with the same intensity as Bowdoin Saturday afternoon at Howard F. Ryan Field. The Ephs managed to keep the two-time national champs to a single goal scored seven minutes into the second half, but were unable to contact net to overtake or tie the Polar Bears and force overtime and dropped a 1-0 decision.
Both teams battled for the ball in the first stanza, but to no avail remaining scoreless as they headed into the second period. 40:32 into the game Bowdoin junior Jessie Small got a piece of the ball bouncing into traffic and lifted it past Tulla to score the game-winning goal unassisted.
A sense of urgency kicked in with three minutes remaining in the
game as Eph offense put pressure on the Bears. Senior captains Anne
de Saint Phalle (Bronxville, NY) and Whit Thayer (Lancaster, PA)
made a last minute drive in attempts to match Bowdoin’s one
point advantage, but they maintained their lead with the final
buzzer. Bowdoin outshot the Ephs 17-4 and had 17 penalty corners to
William’s 2.
Tulla finished the game with 9 saves, while Bowdoin goalie Emily
Neilson had 2.
"Bowdoin is strong and controlled this game," commented Coach Alix Barrale, "But, we have the ability to propel ourselves forward next week if we regain our focus and intensity."
The Ephs will play again at Union this Wednesday at 6PM.
