Taavi Saeger Shines with Hat Trick as Kiel Girls Soccer Advances to State Championship

MILWAUKEE — The Kiel girls soccer team has made remarkable strides since their first appearance in the WIAA state tournament in 2022. On June 19, the undefeated Raiders secured their fifth consecutive state tournament berth with a thrilling 3-2 double overtime victory against New Berlin Eisenhower.

Taavi Saeger was the standout player for Kiel, opening the scoring in the seventh minute. After receiving a pass from Jasmine Bink, she skillfully maneuvered through the defense to score as the Lions' goalkeeper fell to the ground. However, New Berlin Eisenhower quickly responded, with Evangeline Schaffart equalizing in the 13th minute after a precise assist from Piper Bissell.

Saeger struck again just after halftime, netting her second goal in the 45th minute with Harper Walsdorf providing the assist. The Lions fought back once more, with Bissell scoring to level the match at 2-2, this time assisted by Schaffart.

The game seemed destined for a penalty shootout until the 92nd minute, when Saeger and Walsdorf teamed up again for the decisive goal. Saeger found the back of the net after Walsdorf set her up beautifully in the box, sealing the win for the Raiders.

The match statistics reflected the intensity, with both teams registering five shots on goal; however, Kiel had a slight edge in total shots at 9-8. Saeger's performance exemplified her ability to deliver when it mattered most. Kiel is set to face fellow undefeated team McFarland on June 20 for the Division 3 state title.

For more updates, you can reach Tom Dombeck at 920-686-2965 or via email at tdombeck@htrnews.com. Follow him on X, previously known as Twitter, at @Tom_Dombeck.

This article first appeared in the Sheboygan Press.