Led by Wade Nieman’s six goals, the Cate boys sealed their Channel League title by beating Thacher 15-10 in Ojai.
The Rams finish 7-1 in league play, a game ahead of Dos Pueblos at 6-2. Cate is 9-1 overall.
The Rams traveled to a 30-degree difference between Carpinteria and Ojai, but they acclimated to the heat quickly, taking a 4-1 first quarter lead.
Two of Cate’s four FOGOs injured, Cody Mast stepped up to take face-off duties for the day and he was outstanding at the X, winning three faceoffs to start the game.
Baye Breene added three goals for Cate, and Harry McAdam and Cody Mast had two each, with McAdam adding three assist and Mast two. Burak Yanar had eight saves.
“I am so proud of this year’s group,” Cate coach Wade Ransom said. “They are hard working, love lacrosse, and most importantly care for one and other.
“On a small team with relatively few players, our younger group has followed the lead of seniors, improved greatly and are giving us some much needed depth while contributing valuable minutes.
“We will savor the league champions for a few days, but it will be right back to work as we prepare to chase a Division 3 title.”
Santa Barbara 10, San Marcos 6
Senior Quinn Lewis led Santa Barbara with four goals and an assist in a Channel League win over San Marcos.
San Marcos’ Eli Heinze scored five out of six Royal goals.
The Dons led 5-3 at halftime, and 8-4 after the 3rd quarters. Royal goals by Quinn Collins-Burgard and Heinze brought the score to 8-6 in the fourth, but the Dons pulled away with goals by Lewis and Evan Miller.
August Nielsen had 19 saves in goal for Santa Barbara. The Dons are 6-10 and close out the season at Newbury Park on Friday.
August Nielsen had 19 saves in goal for Santa Barbara.
The Dons are 6-10 and close out the season at Newbury Park on Friday.