Fit to be tied

See you down the road. That’s how the girls soccer teams from both Sauk Prairie and DeForest undoubtedly felt after the two teams played to a scoreless draw on May 9. The two powers — Sauk Prairie is ranked No. 8 in the latest Wisconsin Soccer Coaches Association poll and DeForest is receiving votes — are in the same postseason sectional. That’s why Eagles’ coach Drew Kornish knew the importance of this game for playoff seeding purposes. Sauk Prairie is 8-2-1 overall and 4-0 in the Badger Small Conference following the draw. DeForest is 9-3-3 overall and 5-0 in the Badger Large. “Coming into the game both teams were looking to cement one of the top seeds for the postseason tournament,” Kornish said. “With multiple teams in the sectional having two or fewer loses, this was going to be a big opportunity.” DeForest had the better of play in the first half, but Eagles keeper Erelyn Apel — who finished with eight saves — was terrific in net. “The first half saw us on the back foot defending for a majority of the half,” Kornish said. “We were able to make a few switches and found our footing in the second half.” That’s for sure. The Eagles had a goal called back for a close offsides call and another shot that hit the crossbar. Sauk Prairie’s defense and Apel also continued to shine, helping the Eagles emerge with a tie. “Erelyn Apel and our back line of Brooklyn Kaufman, Greta Schadewald, Ava Andres and Lauren Uselman did a fantastic job slowing the very fast attack of DeForest,” Kornish said. “DeForest is a really good side that will go far in the tournament. We know we can continue to grow and develop as a team, but are excited for what is to come.” Including a potential rematch with the Norskies. • On deck: Sauk Prairie hosted Madison Edgewood Tuesday, then is at Baraboo Thursday at 6 p.m. and at Cedarburg Friday at 7 p.m. The Eagles then finish the regular season by traveling to Mount Horeb on May 21 at 7 p.m.