Deep lineups filled with skilled players are a trademark of the gauntlet that is the South Suburban Conference. Of the league’s 10 teams, just three have losing overall records to begin the week. Hovering in the top half of the standings with near-identical records are Eastview (14-5-2, 7-5-2) and Burnsville (13-6-2, 7-5-2).
Eastview, led by sophomore Avery Chesek and her 22 goals, boasts quality wins over No. 4-1A South St. Paul (5-2 on Nov. 16), Lakeville South (5-3 on Dec. 3) and Apple Valley (3-2 on Dec. 14).
Junior Allie Urlaub scored twice as Burnsville eased past the Lightning 3-1 on Dec. 7 in their previous meeting. Sophomore Sami Bowlby powers the Blaze with 16 goals.