The boys’ varsity soccer team claimed it second consecutive District 8 Class 2-A crown behind sophomore Abram Murphy’s first-half goal as the Wildcats slipped past arch-rival Edgewood 1-0 Friday night. Senior Robert Madden contributed to the victory with an assist and senior Allan Joyner had one save. Edgewood goalie Jacob Ellis limited the Wildcat scoring with eight saves.

The Wildcats ran their record to 15-1, while Edgewood fell to 10-9.

West Shore will open regional play Thursday against Lake Highland Prep.

Wednesday was a night for juniors as Sam Leighton scored three goals and Nick Burgess and Nick Pekmezian added two each to lead the boys’ varsity soccer team to an 8-0 shutout against Cocoa in it first game of the district tournament. Gavin Rushnell also scored a goal for the Wildcats, who earned a first-round bye by having the best regular-season record in the district.

“When I made the goal I wasn’t really surprised because [Cocoa] wasn’t playing that great,” Burgess said.

Coach Bob Robidoux says his team is ready for a playoff run.

“I think the biggest thing is everyone has more maturity now and everyone is experienced having gone far into postseason last year,” he said. “We hope the older players’ experience will help mentor the younger kids.”

The players have been preparing for the postseason and are healthy. Listening to music before games, team bonding and yoga are the few ways the team gets has been gearing up for a playoff run.

“Right now it seems like everyone is healthy except for our senior right back Brandon Sepulveda, who has bought a minor neck injury during the last game against Holy Trinity,” senior Robert Madden said. “John Hogan recovered from his long hamstring injury just in time to fill in the position, but luckily for now and hopefully for the rest of the season everyone stays healthy.”

By Hiba Mirza