HAMILTON - Andrew Takacs' 28-save shutout coupled with
Simon Labelle's second period goal to help lift the Raiders over No. 18 Princeton, 2-0 on Saturday night at Class of 1965 Arena.
The win over No. 18 Princeton is Colgate's third ranked win this season and 16th consecutive game unbeaten against Princeton dating back to 2017.
HOW IT HAPPENED
Despite several attempts on goal, including shots from Simon Labelle and Antonio Fernandez, the Raiders were unable to find the back of the net, as the Tigers' goalie, Arthur Smith, made several saves in the opening frame.
Andrew Takacs kept the game level for Colgate with crucial saves, particularly during stretches of pressure from the Tigers, including shots by Jake Manfre and Kai Daniells. Colgate had a power play opportunity late in the period following a penalty on Princeton's Drew Garzone but could not capitalize. The period concluded with both teams tied at 0-0, as neither side managed to break through.
The second period began with Princeton applying pressure, but Colgate's defense, led by Takacs in goal, successfully fended off the early attempts. Colgate took advantage of their opportunities midway through the period when Labelle broke the deadlock with an even-strength goal at 13:43, assisted by Max Nagel. This goal gave Colgate a 1-0 lead.
Colgate maintained their lead through the remainder of the period, successfully killing two Princeton power plays, including one following a holding penalty on Fernandez. Despite several attempts from both teams, Colgate ended the period ahead 1-0, preserving their advantage into the final period.
Colgate maintained control throughout the third period, consistently winning faceoffs and generating scoring opportunities. Despite several missed shots early on, Colgate's defense held strong, with Takacs making crucial saves to keep the Tigers scoreless. A penalty on Nagel briefly shifted momentum, but Colgate successfully killed the power play, regaining control.
As the period progressed, Colgate continued to pressure the Tigers' defense. With under two minutes remaining, Ryan Sullivan capitalized on an empty net, scoring unassisted to extend the lead to 2-0. Colgate continued to apply pressure, effectively managing the game until the final buzzer. The game concluded with Colgate securing a 2-0 victory.
GAME NOTES
- Takacs earned his third career shutout in his first start since Nov. 8, 2025.
- Simon Labelle netted his team-leading seventh goal of the season which equals his career high in a single season.
- Max Nagel dished his seventh assist of the season bringing his point total to 13 on the season and extended his point streak to six games.
- The shutout was Colgate's second shutout of the season and first since Nov. 15 against Brown.
- Ryan Sullivan netted his third of the season and second in the last four games.
UP NEXT
The Raiders (8-12-2, 5-4-1 ECAC) continue their four-game homestand with Harvard and Dartmouth next weekend at Class of 1965 Arena.
