Explain this: The Eden Prairie High School boys soccer team opened its 2008 campaign by scoring one goal in the Minnesota Cup Tournament and winning it.

More amazing, perhaps, is the fact that they opened the season with a whole new defense (defenders plus keeper), but have yet to allow a goal. And oh yeah, they've played Stillwater and St. Paul Central; easily, two of the better programs in the state.

Thursday, Eden Prairie defeated Stillwater in a shootout (the score was tied at 0-0 at the end of regulation). Saturday, Eden Prairie defeated St. Paul Central 1-0, outshooting the Minutemen 27-3.

Tuesday, Eden Prairie returns to action with an away game at Benilde (7 p.m.).