Middlebury was less than a second away from completing a perfect season in regulation of the NCAA Division III women’s championship game on Saturday.
Gustavus Adolphus’ late tying goal was only a delay in the celebration.
Ellie Barney scored 13:17 into overtime to give Middlebury its fourth NCAA championship with a 3-2 victory in Middlebury, Vermont. The Panthers (27-0) became the first Division III women’s team to finish a season undefeated and untied.
Molly McHugh sent the game to overtime by scoring with less than a second remaining in the third period.
The Panthers won three straight championships from 2004 to 2006 but hadn’t won a title since.
Middlebury’s Sophie Merageas made 29 saves and was named the tournament’s most outstanding player.
Clara Billings joined McHugh in scoring power-play goals for the Golden Gusties (25-4-2).
Madie Leidt put Middlebury ahead with 2:47 remaining in the third period but Gustavus had an answer.
Plattsburgh 3, Elmira 2
Annie Katonka scored with just over five minutes remaining to break a tie as the Cardinals (26-3-1) took third place with a victory against the Soaring Eagles (25-4-1).
