The Middlesex girls' varsity hockey team dropped a 5-1 decision to an undefeated Nobles squad on Wednesday afternoon in Dedham, MA. However, the four goal deficit does not reflect the Zebras' overall performance, which was full of close goals, stellar passing and amazing saves by goaltender Christina Cleroux '14. 

Both teams had almost an equal amount of scoring opportunities in the first period, with the Bulldogs just edging the Zebras 9-7 in shots. About halfway through the period, Nobles scored their first goal off a tip in with their second goal following exactly seven minutes later. Down by two at the end of the first stanza, the Zebras used the 10 minute break in the locker room to regroup.

Nobles once again outshot Middlesex 8-6 in the second period, but Cleroux made several outstanding saves to keep the game within reach. Nobles was able to get on the scoreboard at the 11:44 mark however,  before Middlesex came firing back with a goal of their own.  With the 5v3 player up advantage, Sarah Tabeek '14 hit defenseman Caelin Flaherty '17 with a crisp pass at the point who  fed D partner Leah Olson '15 the puck just inside the offensive blue line. Olson quickly walked in to the top of the circle and fired her shot to the top left corner for the Zebras' first goal of the night.  Entering the locker room down by two, Middlesex prepared to fight back with even more ferociousness in the third period.

The score remained 3-1 for the first 10 minutes of play in the third period before Nobles tallied two quick goals in the final five minutes to take the commanding 5-1 lead. Middlesex continued to battle and had several opportunities to close the gap but could not capitalize on their efforts. 

Brooke Gary '16 was outstanding for Middlesex on the defensive line. She made several offensive rushes and provide a spark for the Zebras at both ends of the ice.Cleroux turned away 31 shots for the Zebras.

Middlesex hits the road on Saturday when they travel to Byfield, MA to face Governor's Academy for a 2:15pm game.