Saranac's Nolan Hamel (5) carries it in and fires the shot in overtime for the game-winner. BEEKMANTON, NY--The top-seeded and No. 10-ranked team in New York State, the Saranac Spartans, are headed to the NYSPHSAA Class B State Tournament after a dramatic 1-0 overtime victory over the second-seeded Northeastern Clinton Cougars in the Section VII Class B Boys Soccer Championship Wednesday night at Beekmantown Central School in Beekmantown, New York. Playing in front of several hundred spectators on a crisp fall evening with temperatures in the upper 40s, the championship match showcased two of Section VII's premier programs in a defensive battle that remained scoreless through regulation. Neither team found a breakthrough in the first half, and the deadlock continued through the second despite several scoring chances. Saranac controlled much of the offensive play, outshooting Northeastern Clinton 10-3, but Cougars goalkeeper Mason Favreau delivered a stellar performance to keep the match level. Favreau was outstanding between the posts, turning aside nine shots and frustrating the Spartans throughout regulation and into overtime. With the score still tied after 80 minutes of regulation, the match moved into overtime. Just six minutes into the extra session, Saranac found its championship moment. In the 86th minute, Henry Napper delivered a pass to Nolan Hamel, who buried the golden goal and sent the Spartans into celebration as the crowd erupted. The Spartans' defense was equally impressive throughout the evening. Goalkeeper Elliot Batty made three saves to secure the shutout while the Saranac back line limited Northeastern Clinton's opportunities and protected the narrow lead once the breakthrough arrived. The victory improves Saranac's record to 13-2-2 and secures the Section VII Class B championship. The Spartans now advance to the NYSPHSAA Class B State Tournament, where they will await the winner of Section II in the state quarterfinal round. Northeastern Clinton finishes with an impressive 11-6 record after a strong run to the sectional championship match. For Saranac, the sectional title is the latest achievement in an outstanding season. Ranked among New York State's best Class B teams, the Spartans will now turn their attention to the state tournament as they pursue an even bigger prize and look to keep their championship run alive. Gallery

Northeastern Clinton's Jason Langlois (14) rises above Saranac's James Lefevre (2) with the header at midfield. Gallery