Fischer's Hat Trick Leads NU Past ESC in OT
Northwest University’s Luke Fischer scored the golden goal in the second overtime as the Eagles defeated the Evergreen State College today in the final Cascade Conference game of the season for both teams. For Fischer, it was his third goal of the day completing the hat trick.
Junior forward James Kerr of Northwest opened the scoring in the 18th minute with his goal as he gathered a rebound and scored from the right post. Fischer put Northwest up 2-0 at the 20:10 mark with his header from a pass from teammate Kyle Tatro from 20 yards away. Evergreen got back into the game with Corey Johnson’s goal in the 31st minute of play as he headed one in from the left post. The Geoducks tied the score five minutes later (35:42) as Steven Sharp beat the NU goalkeeper one on one from 10 yards out. The half ended with the score tied at 2-2.
In the second half, Fischer scored his second goal as he chipped one over the Evergreen goalie, Casey Collins, to put the Eagles up 3-2 at 76:20. With a minute 40 seconds remaining in the game, Evergreen’s Kevin Bourland hit the game tying goal off an assist from teammate Kyle Weise.
The Eagles had two shots in the first overtime, but couldn’t convert. Fischer hit the golden goal 4:49 into the second overtime as Kyle Tatro’s pass sailed past the ESC goalkeeper and Fischer knocked the ball into an open net for the victory.
Northwest’s goalkeeper, Srnior Brian Swanson had three saves on the day in 104:59 minutes of play and Evergreen’s goalie, Casey Collins saved 4. NU’s Tatro finished with two assists for the contest. Northwest held the edge on shots, 18-15 with Luke Fischer credited with 6 of the shots, four shots on goal. NU’s James Kerr had five shots including two shots on goal for the Eagles.
Northwest U. (9-8-1, 6-7-1 CCC) finishes the regular season in fourth place, missing the playoffs by one spot. Evergreen State competes their season with a 4-10-3 over all mark and 4-8-2 in league play for a sixth place finish.
“It was a good overall game today for us,” stated Northwest Head Coach Gary McIntosh. “It was a great way to send the seniors out and Brian (Swanson) did a solid job in goal for us. Wilbur (Velasco) led the way on the field. It’s tough to see the seniors playing their last game but a proud moment for us as well. I'm pleased with the effort of my team today. They have represented NU with class all year.”