Apple Valley, the top-rated Class AA team in Minnesota, defeated the Tigers 5-0 Saturday, Oct. 9, at Tiger Stadium for its 41st straight victory, a new state record.
No. 41 didn't come easily, however, as a feisty Farmington side held the high-flying Eagles to just one goal in the opening half.
"I told the boys before the game I wanted them to do two things," coach Julian Buss said. "To play tough for all 80 minutes and to play as a team. I walked away from the game happy and proud of our team."
Apple Valley (17-0) didn't score its first goal until 6:38 remained in the opening half and led just 1-0 at intermission.
The Eagles ramped up their offense early in the second period, scoring three times in the first eight minutes and then tacking on a fifth goal with 16:16 remaining.
"I told our boys at halftime to use the moment to realize how far the Farmington program has come," Buss said. "We're playing the best team in the state and it's a one goal game."
The loss in the regular season finale leaves the Tigers with a 6-10 record entering this week's Section 1AA tournament. Farmington opens post-season play Thursday, Oct. 14, at Lakeville North.
