Coach Mike McLaughlin's Wildcats, ranked No. 1 in the coaches' state poll and the national polls by USA Today and the Top Drawer Soccer SIMA Fab 50, turned back the always capable Celtics from Dublin Jerome, 3-1, on the pitch at Wasmer Field Saturday night.

The two-time defending and record seven-time state champion Soccer Cats improved to 9-0-2 on the season behind goals by freshman midfield Matthew McLaughlin, senior forward Adam Collins and senior defense Patrick Strauss.

Now carrying an unbeaten streak of 47 consecutive matches, a mark that dates back to the state championship season of 2014, Saint Ignatius is seeking what would be an Ohio record of three consecutive state championships.

Up next for the Soccer Cats is Tuesday's 7 PM matchup with the Aurora Greenmen on the pitch at Aurora.

-  Mr. Eddie Dwyer