CONCORD, Mass. - Tabor Academy, one of the premier programs in New England, escaped with a 9-8 victory over a very resilient Middlesex team on Saturday afternoon in ISL girls lacrosse action.

The visiting Seawolves set the tone early, capitalizing on a free position shot and a strong drive from the top to jump out to a 2–0 lead.

Cate Glass (Brookline, Mass.) answered just 40 seconds later to get the Zebras on the board, and then Bella Santucci (Leominster, Mass.) followed two minutes after that to even the score. 

However, the Seawolves responded with a three-goal run to close out the first quarter, taking a commanding 5–2 lead.

Middlesex refused to back down and the Zebras found their rhythm in the second frame, with Glass and Ryan Pinney (Harvard, Mass.) combining for three goals while the defense tightened up to allow just one from Tabor. By halftime, Middlesex had battled back to trail by just one, 6–5.

The momentum carried into the third quarter as Santucci and Pinney struck again for the Zebras. Still, Tabor managed to find the net three times in the period to extend their lead to 9–7 heading into the final quarter.

The fourth quarter turned into a defensive showdown. Lucy McGaraghan (Lexington, Mass.) and Glass made key stops on defense, while Sarah Smith (Acton, Mass.), Avery Swenson (Concord, Mass.), and Sarah Voute (Harvard, Mass.) executed clean transitions up the field. A caused turnover by Glass sparked a fast break, and she delivered a perfect pass to Santucci for a goal that brought Middlesex within one at 9–8.

Both teams had opportunities in the closing minutes, but strong play from goalkeeper Erin Larson (North Andover, Mass.) in the fourth quarter kept the Zebras within striking distance. Middlesex even hit the post on a late chance to tie the game, but the score held.

Despite the slow start, the Zebras showed resilience and determination, mounting an impressive comeback against a formidable opponent. 

Middlesex will look to build on this effort and make adjustments as they prepare for their next matchup against Brooks next Wednesday.