After two days of hard work in practice, Middlesex was looking forward to the bus ride to Andover to take on another tough opponent. The 'Big Blue' came out strong with quick counter attacks out of the back and speed up top. Andover's first goal came off of a cross from outside the box. Quickly thereafter, Andover tallied another goal to go up by two off another strong shot from outside the '18 to the far post.
The Zebras were back on their heels when they convened as a team on the field to regroup and take back control of the game. Buoyed by a commitment to our team concept, Middlesex stepped up its determination, confidence and off the ball movement. The Zebras began to possess the ball and generate more offensive chances. Shannon '17, Isabelle '17, Mari '16 controlled the midfield with Mary '16 and Kate '15 holding strong in the defensive back. Middlesex began to win the 50/50 battles with strong "steps" by Caroline '17 and Kiara '17. The Zebras were unable to get onto the scoreboard by the end of the half despite holding possession for the latter part of the first half.
,The second half was a battle with both teams sharing possession. Middlesex continued to press, eager to get onto the scoreboard. Finally at the 10 minute mark, with the Zebras deep in the Andover defensive end, Shannon '17 was able to walk in on the Andover goalie to put the Zebras back into the game. After the ensuing kickoff, Middlesex gained the ball back quickly with strong team defense and Isabelle '17 found Natalie '15 up top for a quick counter attack. Natalie's tying goal hit the inside post and deflected wide. The score remained 2-1. However, the 'Big Blue' quickly countered against the Zebra's offensive press and caught the team out of position to score their third goal of the game.
As the half wound down, Middlesex continued to battle but lost another clearing opportunity in the box and Andover netted a fourth goal off of a corner with seconds left to go in the game. Despite the scoreboard, Middlesex showed resolve, grit and determination. The Zebras will look to harness these qualities as they prepare for their league opener at home against St. Mark's on Saturday, September 20th at 2:30 PM.
