After losing a tough game just one week earlier, the Zebras were excited to draw BBN for the New England Tournament Quarter-final game.  In last week's game, Middlesex outshot the BBN Knights 16-2, but gave up one goal and failed to score on BBN's acrobatic goalie.  The loss was perhaps the best thing that happened to the Zebras as they had the opportunity to adjust, refocus, and rebound in today's tournament match-up. 

From the first whistle, it was clear that Middlesex was all business, and they not only played with passion and spirit, but they were disciplined and stayed focused throughout the entire 60 minutes.  The mighty Zebras got on the board in the first two minutes of play, and this ignited the Zebras; however, the talented BBN team led by their center back held off several Middlesex scoring opportunities and created counter attack fast break opportunities. 

Julia '12 and Juliana '14 were brilliant in the back field, controlling the explosive BBN forward line and preventing breakaways.  Middlesex converted on a penalty stroke with 9 minutes remaining in the first half and then finished the half with another beautiful goal just 2 minutes and 20 seconds later.  

In the second half, the Zebras came out with the same fire and notched a fourth goal in the first 6 minutes of play.  Katie '12 played brilliantly in the goal in the second half with several athletic saves, and Kathryn '12 intercepted several BBN passing attempts.  The Knights found the back of the goal with just 3:55 remaining, but the poised Zebras held strong in the remaining minutes to maintain the three goal deficit. 

It was a terrific day for Middlesex, and the team looks forward to advancing to the New England Tournament Semi-Final game.  Middlesex will take on Williston Northampton on Saturday, November 19 at 2:00pm at Phillips Andover.