Zack Aday-Nicholson (10) looks to help Eastview clinch both the South Suburban Conference crown and an unbeaten league record with a win over Prior Lake on Tuesday. Photo by Cheryl Meyer, SportsEngine
Formal conference championship games are nonexistent in Minnesota State High School League soccer, but Tuesday's matchup featuring Eastview at Prior Lake, which could decide the South Suburban Conference crown, comes close.
The Lightning hold a one-point lead over the Lakers in conference standings, but Prior Lake also plays Thursday and has a chance to earn more conference points.
Long story short: The winner of Tuesday's showdown takes the conference title. If they play to a draw, the Lakers would require a win or a tie against Apple Valley on Thursday to win the conference.
This puts pressure on both teams, especially the Lightning (11-0-4, 6-0-2), who are ranked fourth in the Class 2A coaches' poll. They control their own destiny at home in a must-win scenario.
While the No. 5-2A Lakers (11-2-1, 6-0-1) have the luxury of two chances at the title, it'd be a burden lifted if they clinched Tuesday.
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