I'm not sure the last time Belleville West's boys soccer team had won eight straight.

But that's what the Maroons did Tuesday when they dismantled Althoff 5-1 on Althoff's field behind the school. West was in control from the opening minute and never looked back.

Coach Rob Thornberry, an SIU Edwardsville product, is putting the petal to the metal as he tries to lead the Maroons to a top-10 ranking in the St. Louis region. With a win over Gibault on Thursday night, that could happen.

West lost its first game of the season 4-1 to Springfield. No one was surprised. The Maroons were 10-12 last year and Springfield has a solid program.

What is surprising is eight consecutive wins. It doesn't happen much around here.

The Maroons are led by senior Jesse Jordan and freshman Sean Gouveia. They're a terrific tandem on the forward line, a handful for any defense.

But there are others who contribute, senior Brian Schield, junior Todd Seibert, senior Alex Sharos, senior Nick Vokes, junior Ian Mayr and sophomore netminder Nate Perekovich, to name a few.

If you're interested in boys soccer happenings, check out the Maroons. Chances are, they won't disappoint you.