East Metro High School Soccer Teams Secure State Tournament Spots

Two high school soccer teams from St. Paul have secured their spots in the upcoming state tournament following impressive victories in the section finals on March 12, 2024. The matches showcased the talent and determination of the East Metro teams, with several schools achieving significant milestones.

Highlights from the Boys’ Section Finals

Central High School is making a triumphant return to the state tournament for the first time since 2019. The Minutemen defeated Stillwater with a nail-biting score of 4-3, thanks to goals from Conrad Iwaszkowiec, Firomsa Aman, Elijah Moseman, and Rowan Tidwell.

Como Park also celebrated a return to the state tournament after a lengthy absence, last competing in 2016. They edged out Mahtomedi with a narrow 1-0 victory, where Patrick Tennison scored the decisive goal, and goalkeeper Louden DeGaetano secured a shutout with three saves.

Another highlight came from Simley, where a header by Michael Hernandez Ruiz in the 68th minute propelled the team to a win over Cretin-Derham Hall. In a bid to defend their title, Eagan topped Rosemount 2-0, maintaining their hopes to repeat as state champions.

Mounds Park Academy made headlines by securing their first state tournament trip since 2010, defeating St. Croix Prep 2-1 in overtime. Other notable results included Maple Grove’s 2-1 victory over Mounds View and Blaine’s 3-2 triumph against Centennial.

Girls’ Section Finals Showcase Talent

On the girls’ side, Mounds View is returning to the state tournament for the first time since 2022, triumphing in a dramatic penalty shootout against Spring Lake Park, with a final score of 10-9 after a tightly contested match that ended scoreless in regulation and overtime.

Stillwater also marked their return to state after a three-year gap, overcoming White Bear Lake with a 2-1 victory. Eagan is set for their third consecutive trip to state, defeating Rosemount 2-1, while Lakeville North achieved the same feat with a 3-1 win over Farmington.

Defending champions Mahtomedi continue their dominance, securing their place in the tournament with a convincing 3-0 victory against Hill-Murray. St. Croix Prep’s offense shone brightly, delivering a staggering 7-1 win over Concordia Academy, although Hastings’ journey came to an end with a 5-1 loss to Holy Angels, where Ellen Neuharth scored four goals for the Stars.

The state tournament quarterfinals for both boys and girls will take place next week at neutral sites, with the semifinals and finals scheduled for the following week at U.S. Bank Stadium. Excitement is building as the teams prepare for the challenges ahead in this prestigious competition.