In the press conference following Wayzata’s 3-1 win over Edina in the State Class AAA Girls Soccer Tournament finals Nov. 1, Trojan coach Tony Peszneker said, “The seniors on this team are like a life insurance policy. The depth and ability of these girls is amazing.”
Early in the 2024 season, on Aug. 27 to be exact, Edina won a 2-1 decision at Wayzata. No one knew it at the time, but that would be Wayzata’s only loss of the season.
The rematch in the state championship game Nov. 1 at U.S. Bank Stadium gave Wayzata a chance to avenge its only loss, and the Trojans were ready. Three goals gave them the halftime lead on the way to a 3-1 victory.
Sophomore midfielder Alex Vellieux scored in the third minute of the game for a 1-0 lead.
Senior captain Tenley Senden increased the lead 2-0 on a breakaway goal in the 12th minute on a pass from senior Sophie Hawkinson. Then, in the 27th minute, Senden scored another breakaway with sophomore forward Lauren Craig assisting.
After that, it was up to Wayzata’s defense to hold the lead. Going into the second half, down 3-0, Edina was not about to give up. Early in the second half, the Hornets fired three quick shots that Wayzata junior goalie Sophia Alvarez was able to save.