Despite relentless effort and unwavering energy from the bench, girls’ hockey fell 0-4 to the Braintree Wamps at John A. Ryan Arena Wednesday, Jan. 14.

From the first hit, the intense tension between both teams was palpable. The Tigers on the bench watched their teammates with visible anticipation as they defended their goal. 

Despite the Tigers immense efforts to guard their post, Wamps forward Audrey Shea, number seven, opened the scoring. The Tigers’ spirit did not falter, though. The Tigers on the ice could hear cheers from their teammates on the bench, as well as the roars from North’s student section fans. From the sound of the first buzzer to the last second of the period, North fans kept their spirits high for the team.

Although they were in a tough position, the Tigers continued to stay motivated and focused during the second period. There was a brief back-and-forth battle of the puck until Wamps defense Emily McDonough, number 16, scored a goal. The Wamps fans celebrated as the Tigers began strategizing on the bench. 

The Tigers continuously made strong advances, notably from senior forward Alexis Blanchfield, number five, who put in immense effort to block and protect the puck throughout the period. 

With one minute remaining, a Wamps player took a shot on North’s net, but sophomore goalie Ellery Hanson caught the puck and prevented the Wamps from scoring. 

After reconvening after a tense 10 minute break between periods, the Tigers began preparing for their final period. Returning to the ice, the Tigers rallied with a quick pep talk and a “Go Tigers!” chant. 

As the period began, tension was rising in unison with the voices of eager fans in the stands. Senior Audrey Welstead, number nine, made a swift shot that was blocked by the Wamps. 

The energy could be felt throughout the whole stadium as the puck continuously traveled back-and-forth. The Wamps were given a penalty of two minutes after tripping a North player, which allowed North more chances to score. Although the Tigers attempted to take calculated approaches toward the net, the Wamps closed out the period with one final shot that secured their victory.

Despite the loss, the Tigers supported each other and maintained high spirits as they glided out of the arena. 

The Tigers, 3-6-1, defeated Boston Latin 4-0 Saturday, Jan. 17. They will square up against Boston Latin once more Wednesday, Jan. 21.