The Zebras played with discipline and grit today against an athletic and determined Thayer squad.  Looking to avenge the 2010 and 2011 New England Championship losses, the Middlesex team stepped onto the Thayer turf with a mission. 

Just 1 minute and 43 seconds into the game, Maddie Winslow and Maggie Paul connected to put the Zebras on the scoreboard, setting the tone for the first half.  The play went back and forth for the remaining 28:17 with few opportunities for both teams, as the defensive units fought to keep the ball away from their respective goalkeepers.  However, Thayer capitalized on a breakaway to even the score, despite a valiant effort by freshman Emma Fehnel and sophomore Leah Olson.  The Zebras refused to let up and remained focused throughout the remainder of the half, using a combination of small passes and big balls, and with 3:29 remaining in the half, Clare Lyne tipped in a beautiful shot for the go-ahead goal. 

In the second half, Middlesex made a few formation changes to preserve the lead, and Juliana Fiore made several interceptions and solid defensive plays to control the Tigers' momentum.  As the time dwindled,  senior defender Anna Toth stripped the ball from a talented and explosive Thayer forward with her reverse stick, and Fehnel and Fiore worked together on a double team in the circle to break down a potentially dangerous Thayer rush.  Sarah Tabeek was a powerful play maker today and helped shut down the Tigers with her hustle and heart.

Today, the Zebras played unselfishly for each other, ultimately leading to the exciting win.  Middlesex looks forward to hosting non-league Cushing on Wednesday at 2:30pm.