Eden Prairie vs. Lakeville North
5 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 17

Eden Prairie and Lakeville North last met a year ago in the Class 2A state semifinals. The fifth-seeded Eagles advanced to the championship game after defeating the top-seeded Panthers on penalty kicks.

This rematch, however, does not hold the same allure since both teams have started relatively slow and are still adjusting to last season’s graduation losses.

Lakeville North (2-2-1) gave up just three goals a year go, but the Panthers have already allowed seven. All-state second team selection Taylor Lock is back in goal and gives the Panthers experience at the back end of the defense.

Eden Prairie (2-2-1), which lost to Eagan on penalty kicks in last season's state title match, has not been leaking goals this season, but the Eagles have found it difficult to score after graduating Ms. Soccer finalist Brianna Lupo (8 goals, 5 assists).

Both teams have shown the ability to weather heavy graduation losses in the past and must do so this year if they are to continue their recent postseason runs.

Eden Prairie has appeared in four consecutive state tournaments while Lakeville North has reached the last three.