Bragging rights are always on the line when Arizona and ASU take the pitch, but this year’s rendition carries extra significance.
It’s as simple as this: if the Wildcats want any shot of hosting the first round of the NCAA Tournament, they must beat the last-place Sun Devils on Friday.
Conversely, if Arizona wants to avoid being on the bubble on Selection Monday, it cannot lose to ASU.
Arizona coach Tony Amato said he hasn’t tried to downplay the match’s significance for his players. He knows they are well aware of its implications.
“I’m thinking about it every single day because I don’t want this to be my last game,” said senior midfielder Kelcey Cavarra.