Middlesex traveled to Class A rival Phillips Andover to compete in the annual "Playing for Pink" game. The game was inspired by former Middlesex and Andover field hockey coach, Olivia Achtmeyer. Olivia is the founder of "Runway for Recovery," a fashion show featuring models that are currently in treatment for breast cancer, survivors, or children that have lost a parent to breast cancer. The "Playing for Pink" game is a terrific way for high school student-athletes to become more aware of breast cancer and play in honor of those that are currently battling, or have battled breast cancer. Today we played for them.
Clad in pink, the Zebras came out ready to play, but Andover caught Middlesex off-guard by scoring just 3 minutes into play. It took Middlesex a little time to get into a rhythm, but the forwards began generating solid passing sequences, and with 10 minutes remaining in the first half, they evened the score. Exactly 8 minutes later, Maddie Miller tipped in her second career goal to give the Zebras a 2-1 lead going into the second half.
Middlesex took off where they left off as the second half began, but could not score on the aggressive Andover goalie. With 15 minutes remaining, Andover slipped behind the defensive unit and notched their second goal. The Zebras let down for the next two minutes, giving up two more goals. Revamped and determined to get the game back in their hands, the Zebras continued to pummel the Andover goalie with shots, but they could not finish.
Despite taking 12 shots and earning 6 corners in the second half, the Zebras went home empty-handed with a tough loss under their belts. The team will look to rebound against Nobles on Saturday.
