Despite early goals from Captain Leah Humes ’12 and Katie Kreider ’14, Andover Girls Soccer couldn’t pull out a win, as Middlesex scored twice to end the game in a 2-2 draw. Controversial calls and physicality created an intense environment for the match.
Humes said, “We played well as a team today, but were unlucky with the outcome. Offensively, we were able to outrun their defense, but missed some key opportunities. Our defense was solid, as always. Diana Tchadi was particularly strong today.”
Middlesex struck first with a goal just 10 minutes into the game. Andover appeared frazzled but responded as Humes quickly netted Andover’s first goal to tie up the score. Just minutes later, Katie Kreider ’14 put an extraordinary header in the back of the net for the second goal of the game, giving Andover a 2-1 lead.
After the early goal by Middlesex, Andover’s defense stayed strong for the rest of the first half, thwarting many of Middlesex’s potent attacks. As the first half was coming to an end, however, the back line took a tough hit when outside back Anjali Krishnamachar ’13 rolled her ankle and had to be pulled out of the game.
Despite this injury the team was determined to keep its lead as the second half commenced. A little over half way in to the second half, however, Middlesex tied the game at 2-2, putting the pressure back on Andover to break the tie.
Although there were many opportunities for Andover to score the winning goal, Andover was unable to pull through. The game ended in a final score of 2-2.
Overall, it was a positive showing for Andover considering the tough physicality of Middlesex and the injuries to Andover. Caroline Nigro ’13 made her first varsity appearance, starting at goalkeeper in this game and having a very strong performance.
The performance of the new players on the team was very encouraging as well. Kinsey Yost ’15 said, “By playing at such a competitive level as a freshman, it really opens my eyes to how soccer is really played, and I’m learning a lot about the game.”
“With some of our more experienced players injured, new players really stepped up to the plate and contributed to team,” said Maddie Bremer ’12.
“Kinsey Yost[‘15] and Alex Thomas [‘15] both had solid performances, pushing the ball closer and closer to the net every instant they came into contact with the ball,” she continued.
Andover Girls Soccer plays at home against Loomis Chaffee at 2:15.
