By Steve Morris

North Branch had a busy week, playing four games in five days.

First, the Vikings played section foe St. Croix Lutheran Sept. 25 and lost 4-0.

North Branch started off slow letting into two goals in the first half and were not able to get back on their feet. St. Croix Lutheran added two more goals to end the scoring at four.

Without much of a breather, the Vikings played Maranatha Christen Academy in non-conference play and won 3-0.

Midfielder Stacy Kampfer made the first goal of the night on a 18-yard shot 20 minutes into the game. At halftime the Vikings were ahead 1-0.

ìWere were really happy with our play at half,î head coach Irv Geary said.

In the second half the Vikings controlled the tempo and added two more goals. Katie Carlson and Heather Schwab each scored a goal for the Vikings.

Moving right along, the Vikings traveled to play North Suburban Conference opponent Columbia Heights and won 2-0, earning their first conference win of the season.

Kristen Robatcek was the hero of the night, nailing two goals to the back of the net to seal the win.

North Branch didnít have much time to celebrate before they hosted Hibbing on Sept. 29 for their final game of the week.

Geary said he could tell his girls were tired from the week, as the Vikings lost 4-1.

ìHibbing came out fast and fresh and caught the Vikings off guard,î Geary said.

Jessica Morgan recorded the only goal of the night for the Vikings.

North Branch plays its last conference game of the year Oct. 5 against Irondale.

As of last week, the Vikings overall record is 3-11 and 1-7 in the North Suburban Conference.