Dakota Ridge High School’s girls soccer team recorded a 2-0 victory against Standley Lake on April 3 at the North Area Athletic Complex. Freshman Maddy Prejzner scored both goals for Dakota Ridge, helping the Eagles achieve their third consecutive shutout.
The match was played in challenging conditions with a cold north wind affecting both teams. The win keeps Dakota Ridge near the top of the Class 4A/3A Jeffco League standings and extends their strong defensive record, having allowed only one goal in their last five games.
Prejzner broke the deadlock late in the first half after receiving a pass from junior Lakeryn Gutierrez and scoring past Standley Lake goalkeeper Kinsley Palmer. She secured her second goal just over a minute before full time, following up on her own shot after Palmer made an initial save.
“She had a great game tonight where we really needed her,” Dakota Ridge coach Paul Moline said. “She has come a long way and is going to be a really exciting player moving forward, and for years to come.” Junior goalkeeper Riley Mulberry also contributed with key saves late in the game, saying, “It was definitely nerve-wracking, but I have trust in my defense. I know my defense is going to step to the ball and do what I need them to do. Worst case scenario, I do my job behind them.” Mulberry praised Prejzner’s effort: “She proved herself that stepping hard to the ball really pays off. Following your shot really does count. Every little touch you can get counts.” Mulberry added about her teammates: “I’ve got an awesome defense and an awesome midfield. As a team we step really hard to the ball.”
Standley Lake suffered its second close loss of the week after previously falling to Green Mountain by one goal on March 31.
Looking ahead, Dakota Ridge faces important matches against Green Mountain on April 7 and Evergreen on April 10—two teams responsible for handing them conference losses last season. Mulberry said about these upcoming games: “I think our team is really excited and confident… We are going to give it everything we’ve got.” Coach Moline said of next week’s challenges: “We are kind of two different teams right now at times. We will see what team comes to play… I think it is going to be a dogfight next week… I think for some of the bigger games we come out and play really well.”
