The Mathews High School boys’ and girls’ cross country teams defeated squads from West Point, Essex and the host Lancaster Red Devils last Wednesday to improve their records to 6-0.

"This is a very young group of runners, but the effort they put forth was impressive," said Mathews head coach Drew Greve. "As they grow in experience, their perseverance may take them to a high level of success this season."

The Blue Devil boys defeated Lancaster (31), West Point (87) and Essex (90) with an overall score of 26 points. Kyle Slaughter led the boys with a time of 18:19. Following shortly behind were Tucker Blackwell (19:19), Justin Adams (19:36), Nick Brown (19:42), Sam Jasinski (19:48), Elisha Kane (19:58) and Tommy Mayo (20:07).

The Lady Devils, meanwhile, had a team score of 20 to defeat Lancaster (53), West Point (63) and Essex (89). Nancy Barnhardt, Kate van Emmerik and Emily Brown delivered a triple threat to the girls’ opponents, placing first, secon...