Girls' lacrosse championship

No. 2 Apple Valley (17-1) vs. No. 1 Eden Prairie (16-2)

3:30 p.m. Saturday, Chanhassen High School

Why Eden Prairie will win: The Eagles have a big experience advantage. In addition to winning each of the past three state championships, Eden Prairie has five titles overall and 10 appearances in the championship game. Add to that a prolific offense. The Eagles scored more than 10 goals in 17 of their 18 games this season, including 35 in their two state tournament games.

Why Apple Valley will win: Apple Valley's extended pressuring defense is difficult for teams to beat. The Eagles are able to mirror and run with their opponents to take away passing lanes and force turnovers. Having the Star Tribune Metro Player of the Year, Reagan Roelofs, doesn't hurt, either. She has 10 goals and five assists in two state tournament games.

Key to watch: Eden Prairie has the ability to move the ball on the break, and it scores a lot of goals off the rush. Apple Valley pressures all over the field to create offense from turnovers.

Did you know? Apple Valley is only the fifth school to play in the championship game in the 11-year history of girls' lacrosse under the Minnesota State High School League's auspices. Apple Valley joins Eden Prairie (10 times), Blake (10), Lakeville North (1) and Lakeville South (1).

JOE GUNTHER