The Wayland boys’ soccer squad dropped an 8-2 decision Thursday evening to O-K Gold Conference rival Grand Rapids Christian.

“Thursday evening’s contest truly was a tale of two halves,” said coach Ben Sleeman. “In the first half, the game was closely contested with the Eagles scoring first but the Wildcats striking back shortly after on a David Ruszkowski goal to tie the game. Unfortunately, a defensive mistake allowed the Eagles to take a 2-1 lead going into halftime.”

In the second half, a quick goal from the home team and another added shortly after made the difference in the game as they continued to pressure the Wildcat defense and were able to find the back of the net six times in the half. Anthony Muscarella scored a consolation goal midway through the half to give the Wildcats a glimmer of hope, but in the end, it was too little, too late for the visitors.

Senior keeper Jake Larsen made 11 saves in the loss while Chuck Wroblewski and Tristen Ortiz both added assists on the two Wildcat goals.

The boys are back in action on Tuesday night as they travel to cross-town rivals, Thornapple Kellogg to take on the Trojans.

Wayland is 2-9-1 overall and 1-6 in O-K Gold Conference action.