From The Sun's Stefen Lovelace:

No. 8 Perry Hall boys soccer coach Dan Skelton knew he had a strong defense coming into the 4A North regional playoffs. The Gators registered 10 shutouts and conceded just six goals during the regular season.

But even he had to be impressed. Perry Hall gave up one goal in four games on the way to the 4A North regional title. In the last three games, the Gators didn't allow a goal.

"They’re the rock of this team," Skelton said. "They’ve been phenomenal as a unit, they’re communicating very well and as long as they continue to play well, we’ll be successful."

Perry Hall got strong performances on both sides of the ball in a 4-0 rout of Severna Park in the regional semifinal last Saturday. The Gators will face 4A West winner Magruder in the final tomorrow at 7:30 p.m.

Skelton said on Internet forums most fans were predicting a Severna Park-Magruder final. That was the type of spark his team needed.

"A lot of people were doubting us," Skelton said. "A lot of forums were not giving us a chance. We had a lot of fire and my guys played very strong."

Part of the reason for the team’s success is senior leadership. Chris Sokolis is a pure finisher on offense and Matt Swiderski balances the offense in the midfield.

The tenacious defense is led by seniors Josh Spivey, Nick Kuklane and Pete Schonk. Junior goalkeeper Zach Kane has kept the back of the net empty for most of the season.

The Gators will face a Magruder (18-0) team that has been playing inspired soccer all season. The team lost former coach Scott Alexander earlier this year to a brain tumor. Skelton knows how tough Magruder will be.

"Magruder is a very talented team. They play well together and have a lot to fight for," Skelton said. "But with the group of seniors I have, they want this last year to be a special year. They make sure all 11 guys are fighting and know if they do that we have a great chance of winning."