WILLIAMSTOWN, Mass. - In a game packed with momentum swings, it was a literal flip that stole the show. First-year
Xander Frey capped off a career performance in spectacular fashion, burying the game-winning goal in overtime before celebrating with a backflip that left the Bates sideline—and the Williams crowd—stunned. The theatrics punctuated an 11-10 Bobcats victory over the Ephs on Saturday, keeping Bates undefeated at 4-0 (2-0 NESCAC).
Frey, who finished with a game-high six points (3G, 3A), saved his best for last. With just over a minute remaining (1:01) in the extra frame and Bates on the man-up advantage, he took a feed from
Connor Hartman (3 G, A), dodged his defender, and ripped a shot past Williams goalkeeper Matt Wetmore to seal the win.
Bates found itself in a battle from the start, trading early goals with Williams (2-1, 0-1 NESCAC) before falling behind 8-3 midway through the third quarter. The Bobcats clawed their way back with a relentless offensive push, with goals from Hartman,
Jack Goldbach (2 G), and
Riley McClure igniting the rally.
Frey's impact was felt throughout, assisting on a crucial fourth-quarter goal—one by Hartman that cut the deficit to 9-8 with 9:42 left in regulation. Then, with 4:37 remaining, Frey delivered once more by ripping home the game-tying goal to make it 10-10 and force OT.
In goal,
Andrew Toland was a rock for the Bobcats, turning aside 18 shots, including several clutch stops down the stretch to force overtime. Bates continued to dominate at the face-off, winning 18 of 25 efforts.
Miles Schmidt secured 16 of his 22 attempts as the sophomore is now 68-for-80 (.850) on the season.
Bates now returns home for a non-conference tilt this Tuesday evening (6:00 p.m.) vs. Keene State.
