It was a battle between Zebras on Saturday during a cool, crisp autumn day. The Middlesex zebras came out quickly with a lot of offensive pressure on Groton's back line and goaltender. Caroline Hughes '18 nearly netted a goal within the first ten minutes, but it hit the post and Kiara Wahnschafft '17 nearly put the rebound away but Groton's keeper came up with a big save. Middlesex continued to press and generated a couple more solid chances with open net shots, hit posts, and one on one with the Groton keeper who continuously came up big throughout the entire game. Ellery Winkler '19 was stellar up front with exceptional off ball runs and dangerous opportunities inside the box. Despite this strong offensive start and solid possession, Groton was relentless and dangerous up top and they were able to capitalize on a well struck shot off of a through ball beyond our back line. The Groton Zebras were up by one heading into the half. Middlesex regrouped at halftime and came out determined. It was a back and forth battle with both teams sharing possession. Middlesex had a couple more scoring opportunities and Ellery Winkler '19 again nearly netted the ball on a fabulous direct kick that skimmed over the crossbar. Once again, Groton capitalized with a quick counter-attack after a high offensive press and they broke through the back line with a blazing shot beyond Pauline Santry '17 in net. But Middlesex came out fighting and quickly scored when Kiara Wahnschafft '17 slipped the ball beyond the Groton keeper from an excellent through ball by Lucy Reece '17. As the clock was winding down, Middlesex continued to press with outstanding defensive play by Mari Herrema '16 in the midfield, hard won physical battles by Corina Kotidis '18 in the backfield, gutsy running by Caroline Reynolds '17 in back, and well played balls to feet by Caroline Hughes '18. Groton once again took advantage of the Middlesex offensive push and countered with another well executed pass through the back line to go one on one with Pauline Santry '17 in net. Middlesex worked hard until the end, but they still ended the day two goals short. Middlesex will take some time to rest this weekend and get back to work on Monday, October 19th for another big game at home against Dana Hall on Wednesday October 21st at 3:15pm.