The Zebras traveled to Dedhamn, MA to take on huge ISL rival Nobles today.  From opening plays, it was clear the game would be a defensive battle as both teams played gritty and smart to protect their keepers. 

The play went back and forth with a score of 0-0 for nearly 15 minutes before Nobles earned a man-up opportunity and took advantage, scoring two back-to-back goals.  When the Zebras were at full strength, the play continued back and forth until Kota '14 put Middlesex on the board with 3:36 remaining in the half.  Nobles managed to sneak one more in with eight seconds remaining to take a 3-1 lead at halftime.  

In the second half, the play was much like the first, but the Bulldogs capitalized from two midfield transitions and scored two goals in the 8th and 9th minutes.  Down 1-5, Middlesex knew they could come back and they slowly chipped away at the deficit with three goals in a six minute span.  With eight minutes remaining in the half, and a score of 4-5, draw control was key.  Nobles managed to win control, score, and then win control again.  They went into a stall and the Zebras had no choice but to step out and try to get the ball back.  Nobles took advantage of the open player opposite the ball and scored four goals while the Zebras were attempting to turn the ball over. 

While the game felt much closer than a 10-5 final score, Middlesex is ready to work on specific aspects of their game to prepare for Milton on Wednesday, April 16.