Who are the top Sarasota, Manatee girls soccer teams entering December?

This high school soccer season is already nearly a month old.

That means it's starting to come into focus which teams are the best, and therefore could bring home some hardware this season.

Braden River's girls team has also been dominant during an unbeaten start, and may have the area's most talented and deepest roster. Riverview hasn't scored many goals, but hasn't needed to during an impressive start.

These teams are currently the best in the area, but there will be time for others to catch up.

Here is the Herald-Tribune girls soccer power rankings:

1. Braden River (5-0-1)

Last week: Did not play

Analysis: Braden River returned several talented players this season, and it's showing on the field. The Pirates have allowed just one goal since a season-opening tie against Palmetto.

2. Riverview (4-2-1)

Last week: Defeated Cardinal Mooney

Analysis: Riverview has lacked offensive punch at times, with just two matches with multiple goals scored, but its defense has made up for it. The Rams have allowed four goals through seven matches, including three shutouts.

3. Lakewood Ranch (1-1-2)

Last week: Did not play

Analysis: Lakewood Ranch has struggled to score to open the season, but its defense has surrendered four goals through four matches, which has put the Mustangs in every game they've played so far.

4. Parrish (2-1-2)

Last week: Defeated Lennard

Analysis: Parrish opened the season with a slow start during which it tied twice and lost, 7-0, to Montverde Academy. However, wins over Venice and Lennard since then have shown that the Bulls are better than their first week.

5. Venice (3-2-2)

Last week: Did not play

Analysis: Venice has been within striking distance of every team it has played this year and has allowed just five goals through seven matches.

6. Cardinal Mooney (3-2)

Last week: Lost to Riverview

Analysis: The Cougars have defeated Venice and North Port, but have also lost to Braden River and Riverview. It's too early to tell just how good this team is, but it's clear it can be a contender.

7. North Port (3-2)

Last week: Did not play

Analysis: North Port opened the year with a signature win against a Lakewood Ranch that won its region last year, and has lost by just one goal in each of its losses, to Cardinal Mooney and Riverview.

8. Sarasota (2-3)

Last week: Did not play

Analysis: Sarasota opened the year with a 3-0 loss to Venice, but has played a one-goal game in each contest since.

This article originally appeared on Sarasota Herald-Tribune: Sarasota, Manatee high school girls soccer Power Rankings