(Editor's Note: This story will be updated with quotes and more information) AUSTIN — For the fourth consecutive season, Pine Island/Zumbrota-Mazeppa boys soccer are heading to the state tournament. ADVERTISEMENT The top-seeded Wildcats controlled Thursday's Section 2, Class 1A final from start to finish, knocking off No. 2 Tri-City United 5-0 at Art Hass Stadium in Austin.
The reigning Class 1A state runner-up and Hiawatha Valley League champions will find out Saturday who, when and where they will play at next week's state tournament. The action kicks off Tuesday, Oct. 22 with games also taking place the 23-24.
Facing a scrappy Tri-City United that was in search of its first state tournament, PIZM prioritized a fast start. The Wildcats were able to do just, taking advantage of an early free kick from about 30 yards out. Sven Oberg unleashed a wicked shot that the TCU goalkeeper punched right to Seth Konik.
The senior midfielder settled the ball before uncorking a perfect shot past the keeper for a 1-0 PIZM lead just 2 minutes and 19 seconds in the contest. Konik was sensational all night. The All-State selection helped the Wildcats dictate pace throughout, skipping past TCU defenders as he consistently pushed forward into the attacking third.
ADVERTISEMENT He would record an assist on PIZM's third goal, finding Oberg off a set piece with a well-placed pass. Oberg did a great job of shielding off his defender as he twisted his body to get a shot on goal. His shot was place.