The girls soccer team rose to 2–1–1 Tuesday night, outlasting rival Walter Johnson Wildcats 1–0 in a defensive showdown.

In addition to being a crucial win against one of the division’s top competitors, the shutout serves as redemption for the Vikings. Last season the Wildcats eliminated the Vikings in a 4–3 upset during the second round of playoffs, putting an end to the Vikes’ quest for their third consecutive state title.

“We really came out with enthusiasm tonight and I think we wanted this a lot more than they did, especially because getting knocked out by them last year was really hard on the team’s overall confidence,” midfielder Ellie Harris said. “Everyone had a great game.”

The first half of the game saw shots from both sides, many of them just wide of the net. The Vikes’ defense fought to keep the ball from a strong WJ front line, headlined by Wisconsin recruit Cammie Murtha.

Thanks to their strong defense, the Vikes’ offense was more prominent in the second half, putting continuous pressure on their opponents.

“We were winning the 50-50s and moving the ball quickly,” Harris said.

The Vikings got on the board with 27 minutes left, when forward Abby Meyers drove the ball past the WJ defenders for a clear shot on goal. 20 minutes later, the Wildcats got a shot from the 25 from a foul by Meyers, but were unable to find the back of the net.

The girls will travel to Northwood Thursday at 7:15 for their fifth game of the season.