Waterville, Maine - The Colby Men's Ice Hockey team opened up their 2021-2022 season Friday night in a NESCAC matchup against Williams College at the Jack Kelley rink in the O'Neil | O'Donnell Forum. 

The first period of the game was dictated by the stellar defense by both goaltenders. Sophomore Andy Beran made 14 saves, stalling the Williams offense. Both teams were evenly matched through the first twenty minutes, resulting in a 0-0 tie at the end of the first period. 

The second period proved to be quite different than the first, as tensions between the two teams grew. Williams was able to notch one goal 11:39 into the second period on a shot over Beran's right shoulder. Just over five minutes later, Jake MacDonald took the Mules' first penalty at 16:55, a two-minute minor for charging. The penalty kill unit stood strong and was able to end the period with the single goal deficit.  Colby had 17 shots on Williams's keeper in the middle frame. 

The Mules drew a holding penalty to go on the power play 8:39 into the third period. The power play unit was able to produce an onslaught of shots on net, leading to a scrum 9:16 into the third where Justin Grillo and a Wiilliams player had matching roughing penalties. The Mules were unable to find the back of the net on the power play, but continued to generate scoring opportunities. With just over two and a half minutes to play, the Mules drew a slashing penalty to put themselves on the power play with the opportunity to tie the game. Despite a well fought battle in these last few minutes, the Mules were unable to score, losing 1-0 to the visiting Ephs. Colby generated a staggering 43 shots on goal, while Beran made 23 saves for the Mules. 

Colby next plays on Tuesday, November 23, against Southern New Hampshire University at 4:30 PM in the O'Neil | O'Donnell Forum.
Go Mules!