A stat line that includes one goal in a match would be a memorable performance for most players. But for Champlin Park senior forward Maille Mathis, that is below the standard she’s set so far this season.
Mathis came into Tuesday’s match with two goals in each of the Rebels’ first four games. Though she only netted one goal against Rogers, it was a big one as her tally in the 67th minute lifted Champlin Park to a 3-2 victory over Northwest Suburban Conference foe Rogers at Champlin Park High School.
Champlin Park (5-0-0, 5-0-0) and Rogers (3-1-1, 3-1-1) were engaged in a high-speed chase up and down the field prior to Mathis’ game-winning goal. The two teams had each allowed just two total goals this season heading into Tuesday, but the Rebels and Royals each struck with a pair of goals in the first half, knotting the score at 2 apiece at halftime.
Rogers came out with an aggressive approach that put Champlin Park, ranked No. 4 in the Class 2A coaches’ poll, on its heels at times.
Champlin Park senior forward Maille Mathis’ fast start to the season continued Tuesday as she recorded her ninth goal of the year. Her tally in the 67th minute broke a 2-2 deadlock to give the Rebels a 3-2 win at home over Northwest Suburban Conference rival Rogers.
Champlin Park (5-0-0, 5-0-0) trailed twice during the first half but responded each time with an equalizer. Rebels attacker Kylie Scott and midfielder Paige Kalal, both sophomores, each scored in the opening half.
Rogers (3-1-1, 3-1-1) opened the scoring while testing a Rebels team which had allowed just two goals all season. Junior forward Izzy Smith tallied the game’s first score on a header. Then, eighth-grade defender Lauren Carroll made it 2-1 Royals in the 40th minute.
The Royals found themselves on defense much of the second half against the Rebels, who are ranked No. 4 in the Class 2A coaches’ poll.The Rogers registered just one shot on net in the second half after testing Champlin Park senior keeper Sarah Martin with three shots in the opening half.
Senior goalkeeper Edie Frantzen of Rogers faced a consistent attack from the Rebels and finished with nine saves.
MN Soccer Hub polls are for entertainment purposes only.