Loss still burns Eagan's girls' soccer team

Losing is hard enough. Losing in the state quarterfinals on a questionable play is downright painful.

"Oh, man, did that one bite," Eagan goalkeeper Kristen Knutson said. "That stung for a while, for sure."

The Wildcats' four-year starter had a difficult time bringing up the team's 1-0 loss to Mounds View in last year's Class 2A state tournament opener. After all, she felt the game's only goal shouldn't have been counted because of an offside violation that wasn't called. With a 16-1-4 record and a full head of steam entering the state tournament, the players were not happy about how it all ended.

"That fire that we had after that game -- that anger -- we're putting all of that into how we play this year," Knutson said.

Two years ago, after Eagan took third place at state, the Wildcats lost plenty of high-end talent to the college ranks. They still returned to the tournament. After losing their top-three point-producers to graduation last season, the girls will attempt to make it three in a row.

With a healthy dozen or so players returning, the Wildcats still bring plenty of experience to the table. Head coach Mark Obarski's squad boasts more seniors than ever, making leadership a strong suit.

Knutson, a captain, will lead from the net. Her father played goalkeeper through high school, and at the age of 10, Kristen wanted to follow suit. Dad has continued to train her throughout her career, and it must be working. Knutson posted 12 shutouts last season, including five consecutive leading up to the state tournament.

Co-captains Sarah Lochner and Jess Hart will help solidify Eagan's core. Hart, also a basketball standout, brings athleticism and experience. Katie Peterson, a center midfielder, will need to distribute the ball and set up the attack.

Junior Kaleigh Solheim returns as the team's leading goal scorer after tallying nine last season. Marissa Ganske, also a junior, brings speed and excitement to the attack position. The Wildcats could still struggle to score goals this year, so they'll have to take advantage of each opportunity to put points on the board.

Chemistry and team unity are already rock-solid, which is a huge advantage.

"The girls know each other and are good friends," Obarski said. "They'll play for each other and have each others' back on the field."

Every night in the South Suburban Conference will present a challenge, with Apple Valley, Rosemount, Eastview, Lakeville North, Prior Lake and Bloomington Jefferson, among others, filling the schedule.