2 min read
Christian Mayala Mazina, left, of Edward Little High School and Fernando Bengue of Lewiston High School compete for the ball during an October 2024 game in Auburn. The Red Eddies and the Blue Devils renew their rivalry this season on Sept. 20 in Auburn and Oct. 21 in Lewiston. (Daryn Slover/Staff Photographer)

Lewiston vs. Camden Hills, Sept. 9 (at Lewiston) and Oct. 2 (at Camden Hills): These two games are rematches of last year’s Class A North final, which Camden Hills won on penalty kicks. Although both teams have key players to replace, their encounters should again be pivotal in the Class A North playoff picture.

Monmouth Academy at Mt. Abram, Sept. 17: These teams have been at the top of the heap in the Mountain Valley Conference the past few years. This mid-September showdown will be a good test of the Mustangs’ and Roadrunners’ championship potential in Class D and Class C, respectively.

Telstar at Carrabec, Sept. 17: Telstar is primed for a big year, with the vast majority of its roster back from last year’s 11-2-1 squad. The Rebels will face a stern test on the road against Carrabec, which is 31-3-1 over the past two seasons and has emerged as one of eight-player soccer’s premier teams.

Edward Little vs. Lewiston, Sept. 20 (at Edward Little) and Oct. 21 (at Lewiston): Does this one need any explanation? The Battle of the Bridge is appointment viewing every year, and with the Red Eddies and Blue Devils expected to again be among the Class A North contenders this fall, you can count on two good matchups.

Edward Little at Mt. Blue, Oct. 16: Although Mt. Blue won only four games last season, a veteran Cougars team should be much-improved. Senior night against the Red Eddies presents a good chance for the Cougars to pick up a marquee win as they set their sights on the playoffs.

Mike Mandell came to the Kennebec Journal and Morning Sentinel in April 2022 after spending five and a half years with The Ellsworth American in Hancock County, Maine. He came to Maine out of college after...