Fridley Heights Soccer Team Headed to State

The won a berth at the Minnesota Youth Soccer Association State Tournament by beating the Hopkins Dynamo Soccer Club 6-4 in a regional playoff game in St. Louis Park Thursday. 

Throughout the first half, the Lightning played a complete game on both offense and defense. Nick Rathke opened the scoring with a goal in the first 10 minutes. Noah Wiggins and Erick Badilla added to the lead with a goal each. Goalie Hector Leon ensured a first half shutout, bolstered by outstanding defensive play. Focused yet aggressive passing and teamwork paid off with a 3-0 halftime lead for the Lightning.

A second half goal by Hussein Mohamed extended the Lightning’s lead to 4-0. However, Hopkins was not willing to let their season slip away without a fight, and battled back to a 4-4 tie with just minutes left in the game.  

As the Lightning fans screamed encouragement from the sidelines, the strikers rallied and refocused; Wiggins and Mohamed each scored again with just minutes left. The defense, led by Dan Griffith, Alex Born and Alex Poirier, stood firm and refused to allow Hopkins to gain any more ground. The sidelines erupted in a boisterous celebration when the final whistle blew.

When asked to comment on his team’s play, Coach Brian Born said, “These boys have come together and played team soccer for a couple games here at the end of the season that should be put in a soccer instructional video.”

The 6-4 final sends the Lightning to the MYSA State Tournament (representing the league's North Division) for their third appearance in five years. The first game will be played Sunday, July 24, at 9 a.m. at the Coon Rapids Soccer Complex, 1821  111th Ave. NW, Coon Rapids.