Zebras fall in the Championship Game

The 49th annual Groton Lawrence Holiday Hockey Tournament showcased a thrilling championship showdown between the Groton School Zebras and Holderness School. The atmosphere was charged with anticipation as these powerhouse teams clashed on the ice. Dozens of NHL scouts, USA Hockey's NTDP program, and many NCAA colleges and universities were on hand to see the action in Groton School's O'Brien Rink. 

Holderness burst out of the gates, establishing a commanding 3-1 lead in the early stages of the game. But the Zebras refused to succumb to the pressure. With unwavering determination, they launched a stunning comeback, capitalizing on their offensive opportunities to tie the game at 3-3 and then surged ahead with a 4-3 lead in an intense second period. Zebra goals can be seen here. 

The momentum seemed to favor the Zebras, their fans roaring with anticipation of a tournament-clinching victory. However, fate took a cruel turn. In a pivotal moment, the Zebras found themselves down two players, facing a five-on-three penalty kill. Holderness seized this advantage, displaying their prowess on the power play, and capitalized with a crucial goal, snatching back the lead and dashing the Zebras' hopes of securing the tournament win.

Despite their valiant efforts and a hard-fought battle, the Zebras couldn't recover from that pivotal five-on-three power play goal. Holderness managed to score another goal as well as an open net goal before the final buzzer, denying the Zebras the championship glory they had fought so fiercely for throughout the tournament. It was a heart-wrenching end to a thrilling game, highlighting the fine margins and intense drama that define the New England Prep holiday hockey tournaments. The Zebras will look toward their game vs. Phillips Exeter in early 2024. Happy New Year to all.