The William Smith hockey team closed its non-conference schedule with a 2-0 loss to Elmira on Saturday evening at the Murray Athletic Center. The Herons battled throughout but were unable to break through offensively despite a strong push late.
First-year goaltender Julia Echavaria made her first career start for William Smith and turned in a standout performance, stopping a career-high 31 shots in just under 56 minutes of action. The Herons finished with a 24-33 deficit in shots on goal and were held scoreless on five power-play opportunities, while Elmira went 0-for-2 with the man advantage.
The teams skated through a scoreless first period for the second straight day, though Elmira controlled play early with a 15-4 edge in shots. The Soaring Eagles broke through five minutes into the second period when Mo McBride one-timed a centering pass for her third goal of the season. Abby Eselunas added insurance later in the frame, firing a shot from the left faceoff circle to make it 2-0. Eselunas finished with a goal and an assist to pace Elmira.
William Smith controlled the tempo in the third period, outshooting Elmira 13-2, but Olivia Last stood tall in net. Last finished with 24 saves, including 13 in the final period, to secure the shutout as the Herons were denied on several point-blank chances.
William Smith fell to 7-8-0 on the season, while Elmira improved to 9-3-1.
William Smith returns to the ice on Friday, January 23, when it welcomes Cortland to The Cooler. Faceoff is scheduled for 7 p.m.
Kyle leads sports coverage and hosts the Concrete Jungle podcast. Have a lead or question? Send it to [email protected].