Tag nebraska high school soccer

We are entering into the final stages of the 2021 season, and it has been a wonderful experience. While it has been a joy to watch the sport all season long, this is the time of year when it really matters. The energy and anticipation is almost overwhelming for soccer fans such as ourselves.  The district pairings have been released by the NSAA, and the process of establishing a state field is underway. Nebraska Soccer Talk gives our thoughts and analysis on the district/sub-district match-ups.

A-1

• Entering as the only undefeated team, Lincoln Southwest has state title capabilities and aspirations. They are the favorite in this field and have plenty of talent to justify the #1 seed.
• Lincoln High and Papillion-La Vista South are dangerous middle seeds that could surprise many after they play one another. PLS has been up and down this season but are very good when clicking. A few complete games for this squad and they will find themselves at Morrison.
• I like Lincoln High to reach the final game in this district where they will presumably play Lincoln Southwest. There, the Links are certain to put up a fight as they have done all season versus good competition.

A-2

• It is expected that Omaha South will make a finals appearance in district A-2. Anything else would be a huge shock to the Nebraska soccer landscape. South is gaining a reputation as a second half team. Teams tend to keep it close during the first half, but eventually South’s talent takes over when it matters.
• Its a toss up between Elkhorn South and Millard North. Elkhorn South has experienced injury problems throughout the season, but if they are healthy, this could be a very capable team.
• Millard North has had moments of brilliance, most notably against Gretna during the Metro Tournament. The Mustangs have defeated top teams before so they are not to be overlooked. A consistent level of play is the key here. Every minute will matter versus Elkhorn South and potentially Omaha South.

A-3

• Fremont should win the play-in game versus Omaha North, from there the Tigers have a huge challenge with #1 seed Gretna.
• Gretna has played fantastic soccer all year with multiple players stepping up in key moments. The Dragons should advance to state IF they play to their ability.
• Omaha Bryan will be the biggest challenger and threat to Gretna. They do lack a showcase win this season, but this is an opportunity to earn their first. There is talent on the roster.

A-4

• This district will have a lot of our attention due to the presence of two top 10 teams. Creighton Prep and Grand Island will be an exceptional match-up if they both advance to that game.
• Creighton Prep has earned that #1 seed. They have demonstrated themselves to be a top quality side versus Omaha South and others.
• Grand Island’s state title hopes are legitimate even with presence of Prep.The Islanders have won eight of their last ten games, playing very well throughout that stretch.
• Omaha Northwest is a dangerous three seed that Grand Island cannot overlook in that first game. Northwest was momentarily inside the Top 10 and have lingered in that 11-14 range all season.

A-5

• This one will be fun as multiple matches could go either way. There is no clear cut overwhelming favorite in this district.
• Millard South and Kearney have played challenging schedules this spring. Theoretically, that should benefit them now as the urgency gets turned up.
• The Patriots garnered more and more respect as the season went along. They were a pleasant surprise to many, including us.

A-6

• Lincoln East has done enough to earn top seeding, but they are still searching for a breakthrough win. They have been so close to reaching their full potential, which programs are built on big wins. A-6 will be an opportunity to gain momentum before playing top tier teams.
• North Platte and Lincoln East faced each other on April 23rd. On that day, North Platte came away with the victory, what will be the result this time? Do not overlook the first round games.
• Millard West and Papillion-La Vista will be a great game to watch for all supporters. West probably has the edge, but not by much. This game could go either way when looking at the two squads.

A-7

• What a year for Lincoln, three teams from the city are #1 seeds in district play. The level of play within the city has greatly increased in recent years from top to bottom.
• Norfolk’s defensive capabilities give them hope in this district. If they are able to discover an attacking prowess, they have a shot to steal a game or two. They pushed Lincoln Southeast, Grand Island, and Lincoln East to the edge this season.
• At the beginning of the season, we gave a lot of attention to Lincoln Southeast. We called for lofty goals and thus far they have answered.
• Omaha Westside has the best situation of any two seed in Class A boys. Win two and you’re in.

Thank you for reading and being a part of our new community. A like, share, comment or recommendation of content would be greatly appreciated. In order to financially support our efforts, sponsorship/partnership opportunities have become available. Sponsors will receive vast exposure to the Nebraska soccer community through different media avenues. The sponsorship process is easy and reasonable.

Contact us on our website or email @ nebraskasoccertalk@gmail.com.

Connect with us on Twitter, Instagram, or listen to our podcast.

Chace Hutchison

We are entering into the final stages of the 2021 season, and it has been a wonderful experience. While it has been a joy to watch the sport all season long, this is the time of year when it really matters. The energy and anticipation is almost overwhelming for soccer fans such as ourselves.  The district pairings have been released by the NSAA, and the process of establishing a state field is underway. Nebraska Soccer Talk gives our thoughts and analysis on the district/sub-district match-ups.

B-1

• A fantastic season by Platteview has them in leading position to win this group. Really big steps forward for this program.
• The game between Conestoga and Nebraska City is a bit of a toss up. Very realistic possibility to have a seeding upset in that first round.

B-2

• Omaha Skutt has been the top team all season. They have faced little resistance due to their overwhelming talent at every level.
• Ralston has the best shot to surprise this district.

B-3

• Bennington should be the winner in this group. This is a team with two top level scoring options that will be a challenge for any team to stop.
• Mount Michael has been a tough team to understand in the 2021 season. They have played well against good teams, but have under-performed when they have the upper hand.
• Elkhorn North has a shot if the defense is able to step up. Logan Hanigan at forward can break a game open. In these scenarios, an upset is one or two goals away.

B-4

• Man, what a wild ride is has been for South Sioux City. They began the season in our Top 3, but struggled early on. We kept them in our rankings even when they fell to 1-6. However, due to the performances of other programs they eventually found themselves on the outside of the Top 10. SSC stormed back and are now a one seed. What will be the result in the post-season?
• Blair is inside our Top 10 in the latest rankings. I like the chances of this second seed.

B-5

• Beatrice has been the story of the season on the boys side of the sport. Their reward for an epic turnaround? Being placed in one of the most challenging and hard to predict districts.
• Waverly and Norris will be a great game to watch as two capable teams fight it out in an attempt to advance.
• Crete’s results have been all over the place but there is talent on this squad. They are a dangerous four seed.

B-6

• Schuyler has upped their game in recent weeks, they are beginning to look like a state tournament team. That improvement makes for an interesting scenario in the B-6 district.
• It would be unwise to not mention the #1 seed, Columbus Scotus. They won against Schuyler only a few days ago, and they will need to do it again.

B-7

• The GI Northwest co-op has paid off for the community. Two schools put their best talents together which resulted in a great season.
• Do not overlook Aurora as the four seed. Not necessarily predicting an upset but it is not out of the question.
• For Kearney Catholic, this season started off on the right foot as they advanced to 6-0. A 3-3 finish brings some hesitation to the post-season.

B-8

• B-8 features all central or western Nebraska teams, a noted change from other pairings.
• Lexington is the clear favorite as they have defeated several quality Class A & B teams. The Minutemen feature a few of the best players in the state.
• Scottsbluff is a relative unknown, they have played three Wyoming teams. It is unclear how to compare those wins with Nebraska based results.
• Lexington defeated Scottsbluff 6-0 earlier this season.

Thank you for reading and being a part of our new community. A like, share, comment or recommendation of content would be greatly appreciated. In order to financially support our efforts, sponsorship/partnership opportunities have become available. Sponsors will receive vast exposure to the Nebraska soccer community through different media avenues. The sponsorship process is easy and reasonable.

Contact us on our website or email @ nebraskasoccertalk@gmail.com.

Connect with us on Twitter, Instagram, or listen to our podcast.

Chace Hutchison

We are entering into the final stages of the 2021 season, and it has been a wonderful experience. While it has been a joy to watch the sport all season long, this is the time of year when it really matters. The energy and anticipation is almost overwhelming for soccer fans such as ourselves.  The district pairings have been released by the NSAA, and the process of establishing a state field is underway. Nebraska Soccer Talk gives our thoughts and analysis on the district/sub-district match-ups.

A-1

• Southwest is undefeated for a reason, they are extremely talented and have a championship mindset. This is a squad that is filled with quality at every level. The Silverhawks have played a challenging schedule, defeating every opponent on their quest for perfection. They are the favorite here, but it will be no sure thing.
• A huge percentage of Millard West’s starting lineup has been occupied by freshmen and sophomore players. They have battled all season long, learning many lessons along the way. With a full regular season of experience, can this be a coming of age moment?

A-2

• Gretna is our current #1, they have earned that ranking again and again. The Dragons have perhaps the best player in the state occupying midfield, Sarah Weber is that good. Not to be outdone, her teammates have proven themselves to be of high quality as well. Talent is amazing, but what truly sets this team apart is their championship mentality.
• Gretna’s path to Morrison will not be a cakewalk. Millard North features several division one talents that have the potential to take over a game. The Mustangs need to provide more of a supporting cast, but the potential is there.
• Omaha Central will have something to say in this one, and they will not go quietly. The Eagles will be a difficult opponent.

A-3

• With the return of Haley Peterson, a top talent in the state, Lincoln East will be back to almost full strength. When healthy, this team jumps into the #1 ranking argument.
• Elkhorn South and Millard South have both won consistently when facing teams of equal or less talent. However, a new level will need to be found if they wish to keep playing in 2021. Both squads are capable of winning the group, but it will take being great at the details to pull it off.

A-4

• Love the resiliency of the Lady Bulldog program. After a tough start, they have rallied to finish the season with only one loss in their final twelve games. Gracie Haneborg is a division one talent, that would be well known if she played in the Lincoln or Omaha area.
• Wins over Omaha Mercy and Lincoln Southeast demonstrate the potential of Lincoln Pius X. They have a chance to advance from this group.

A-5

• During the first half of the season PL South was an overwhelming force with an 8-0 start. Then Allie Napora goes down and the impact has been significant. The remaining roster is very talented, but may be a year or two off from true title contention.
• Columbus entered out Top 10 in recent weeks and has proven to be a very solid squad. It will be a tough task, but their chances look promising.

A-6

• Group A-6 looks fun and could be full of surprises. Omaha Marian and Lincoln Southeast are the most likely to advance but that championship game is an absolute toss up.

A-7 

• My belief in Kearney is strong, something about that program generates a lot of optimism with me. They are solid in every aspect of the game which makes them a very difficult opponent.
• Advancement to the state tournament for Papillion-La Vista would be a very unsurprising result from this group. This is perhaps as close as you can get in terms of quality between a one and a two seed.

Thank you for reading and being a part of our new community. A like, share, comment or recommendation of content would be greatly appreciated. In order to financially support our efforts, sponsorship/partnership opportunities have become available. Sponsors will receive vast exposure to the Nebraska soccer community through different media avenues. The sponsorship process is easy and reasonable.

Contact us on our website or email @ nebraskasoccertalk@gmail.com.

Connect with us on Twitter, Instagram, or listen to our podcast.

Chace Hutchison

We are entering into the final stages of the 2021 season, and it has been a wonderful experience. While it has been a joy to watch the sport all season long, this is the time of year when it really matters. The energy and anticipation is almost overwhelming for soccer fans such as ourselves.  The district pairings have been released by the NSAA and the process of establishing a state field is underway. Nebraska Soccer Talk gives our thoughts and analysis on the district/sub-district match-ups.

B-1

• Honestly, who knows how this district will end up? Conestoga is the #1 seed but has a record of 6-6.
• Probably three of these teams have a legitimate shot at winning this group. Their reward? The opportunity to play Omaha Skutt.

B-2

• Omaha Mercy has been a top three team all season, so they should handle this district. Victories versus Bennington, Blair, Omaha South, and Omaha Burke give backing to our assumption. Omaha Skutt is still the overall favorite this season, but Mercy will presumably get their shot.
• Gross Catholic will be the biggest challenger to Mercy. These two teams played one another during the regular season, it resulted in a 2-1 win for Mercy.

B-3

• Man oh man, this B-3 district will have the opinions of soccer observers going all of the place. Four teams are threats, all garner legitimate discussion.
• Duchesne should survive and advance, but this road will not be easy.
• There is an argument to be made that the most dangerous second, third, and fourth seed are all located in the same group.
• In almost any other group, I like Blair. Tough deal here, but they may be able to pull this off.

B-4 

• Waverly has had a very nice season, full of positive moments and play. We really like the direction of this program.
• Solid first year for Elkhorn North, they have laid down a good foundation for the future.
• Hanna King has a big soccer future, she will try to prolong her high school career but it will take her best work.
• A lot of positives in the statements above, those teams deserve the acknowledgement. With those things being established, Omaha Skutt will have to beat themselves for them not to win this group.

B-5 

• Columbus Scotus has been playing well as they advanced through the season. They earned a spot in our Top 10 and should advance out of this group. Although, the final could be a fun match-up.
• The possibility of a Columbus rivalry game in the finals brings interest to B-5.

B-6

• Norris will look to keep the dream alive, but the road ahead will have its challenges. Talents such as Reese Borer and Hannah Schroeder will be relied upon. A storybook season for the Titans, now its time to write a beautiful ending.
• Lincoln Lutheran/Raymond Central enters sub-districts with just two loses on the season and a second seed classification. They look like a state caliber team, however Norris would be the biggest obstacle they have faced this season.

B-7

• Aurora at 9-6 and Northwest at 8-7 are about as equal as it gets. They should both make it to the championship game, from there it is a toss up. These two teams have competed against each other twice already, Aurora winning both. On paper that seems to indicate and edge for them. However, it can be very difficult to beat the same opponent three teams in one season.

B-8

• This district should come down to Scottsbluff and Lexington in the finals. If that is the match-up, Lexington should come out on top. The turnaround and buildup of that program is a remarkable story. No matter the result, congratulations to that staff and the players.

Thank you for reading and being a part of our new community. A like, share, comment or recommendation of content would be greatly appreciated. In order to financially support our efforts, sponsorship/partnership opportunities have become available. Sponsors will receive vast exposure to the Nebraska soccer community through different media avenues. The sponsorship process is easy and reasonable.

Contact us on our website or email @ nebraskasoccertalk@gmail.com.

Connect with us on Twitter, Instagram, or listen to our podcast.

Chace Hutchison

A classic spring soccer game night was the scene for #4 Papillion-La Vista South and #9 Millard West. As warmups progressed, the temperature stayed relatively mild giving spectators false hope that the evening would be the same. As the action picked up on the field, the temperature plummeted. Ah spring time Nebraska soccer, what a concept. 

The play on the field made the coldness forgettable for large portions of the game. This was a hard fought, intense, and exciting match from beginning to end. The importance of this game could be observed as coaches, players, and spectators embraced their respective roles throughout the game.

Papillon-La Vista South began the game incredibly focused and effective. Their shape, movement, fight, and communication gave them an edge for the first half of the game. A 3-0 halftime lead for the Titans demonstrated their control over the first half of the game. Millard West did have their opportunities and bright spots during that time period, but none were converted. 

However, if anyone expected the game to be over at that point then they truly do not understand this Wildcat program nor have they much knowledge of Coach Tevis-Butler. The Wildcats took the halftime break to regroup resulting in a much more balanced second half. Two Millard West goals early in the second half created some much needed drama. 3-2 would be the closest the young Wildcats would get in this match.

Coach Watson and his players responded to this adversity in a true demonstration of composure and experience. Mia Lang, Dylann Ehegartner, Allie Napora, and Laina Souerdyke took control and put the game away for the Titans. 

Two wonderful free kick conversions, as well as two noteworthy finishes, highlighted the night. 

Game Result – Papillon-La Vista South 5     Millard West 2

Woman of the Match – Dylann Ehegartner (Central Defender & Drake University commit)

NEST Quick Hits 

• Papillion-La Vista South is a legitimate contender for the Class A title this year. They have the necessary mix of top end talent and squad depth. Their playmakers influence the game at every level making it is hard to find a weakness. Perhaps most important, the entire squad plays with a great understanding of the game and their style of play.
• Millard West is a young team with a very bright future. Featured in the Wildcats starting lineup were seven players listed as freshmen or sophomores. These youngsters are growing with every game and the potential is apparent. In particular, Giuliana Gagliolo, Ally Stoneburner, and Alyssa French caught my eye with their play. The pieces are there for Coach Tevis-Butler and the Wildcat program. 
• Laina Souerdyke is a name that will become well known within soccer circles in the near future. This sophomore midfielder for Papillion-La Vista South is a natural on the ball. Her dribbling and passing abilities were wonderful to observe. Pair that with a nose for the goal and you have a top player in the state. 
• The quality of set pieces this year has been insane. Game after game there seems to be a free kick opportunity that makes everyone go WOW. There were two such moments in this game. If you missed them, go take a look at our twitter thread of the game.

Thank you for reading and being a part of our new community. A like, share, comment or recommendation of content would be greatly appreciated. In order to financially support our efforts, sponsorship/partnership opportunities have become available. Sponsors will receive vast exposure to the Nebraska soccer community through different media avenues. The sponsorship process is easy and reasonable.

Contact us on our website or email @ nebraskasoccertalk@gmail.com.

Connect with us on Twitter, Instagram, or listen to our podcast.

Chace Hutchison