Courtesy of Utica College Sports Information Department

Potsdam State goalkeeper Hilary Hitchman (Oswego State/Potsdam) saved 54 shots throughout her 65 minutes of work on Saturday evening, helping to maintain a 1-1 tie against nationally ranked No. 6 Utica College in an ECAC Women's West Conference match up at the Utica Memorial Auditorium.

Utica struck first 12:50 into the contest.  Junior Andrea Maxon (North County Ice Storm/Canton) netted her third goal of the season after receiving a pass from Samantha Rowan (Belle Tire/Trenton, MI).  However, the lead was not held on for long.

The Bears combated just over three minutes later with a goal of their own.  Desiree Webster (Potsdam Ice Storm/Potsdam), a freshman, knocked home her first of the season off an assist from Brandi Atwell (Cornwall Typhoons/Cornwall, Ont).  The effort knotted the score at 1-1 as the teams heading into the first intermission.

At the end of the period, Utica held a 17-5 shot advantage, and they were unable to score off the sole power play that was offered.

The remainder of the game became a grueling defensive battle. After scoreless second and third periods, the game was sent into overtime.

Maxon pitched in nine shots on goal and Rowan sent eight the goalie's way, but the Pioneers could not manage to break the tie.  Potsdam's goalie came up with a big save with 30 seconds left in overtime to hold the game at a stalemate.

Throughout the contest, Hitchman registered 54 saves, helping her earn first star honors.  Her counterpart, Kelley Peers (Toronto Rattlers/Grosse Point, MI) mustered 18.  Due to their lone scoring efforts, Maxon and Webster earned second and third star recognitions.

The tie brings Utica's overall record to 3-1-1, and 1-1-1 in the ECAC West.  Meanwhile, the Bears become 2-3-1 overall, and adopt a 1-3-1 record in the conference. 

The Pioneers return to action on Friday, Nov. 21 when they travel to Aston, PA to face Neumann College a conference match up at 7 p.m.  It will be the Pioneers' fourth game of a seven game ECAC Conference stretch.  Potsdam will host RIT on Friday at 7 p.m.