PINE GROVE - When coach Jeff Kerns says his Ironton Fighting Tigers are deep, he's not talking about their innermost thoughts.

Kerns is referring to the team's depth, which played a prominent role this week as the Fighting Tigers ran their record to 31-11 on the season with two wins in three matches.

"We're getting contributions from five and six guys, which we weren't getting the last couple of years. Everyone is going to have a bad night, so it gives you a cushion. The past few years we were only four deep," Kerns said.

Ironton had its best home score at 156 on Monday but lost by one stroke to West Union.

Dennis Gagai led Ironton with a 36 for medalist honors. Jay Rudmann was just two strokes back at 38, Gavin Harbolt had a 39 and Nick Boggess finished with a 43.

The two teams hooked up again Tuesday on West Union's home course. The Fighting Tigers used the short course to register a tie at 139, then won on the fifth man's score.

Gagai shot a one-under par 32 and Seth Christian had an even par 33. Boggess and Rudmann each carded a 37 and fifth man Haynes had a 38, three strokes better than West Union's fifth man.

Gagai's score tied West Union's Koby Yosler for medalist honors.

"A one-shot loss at home is pretty tough, but to go back to their course, and a course we haven't seen, and win says something about our guys," Kerns said.

The Fighting Tigers traveled to The Oaks to play Russell, Ky., Wednesday and beat the Red Devils, 173 to 177.

Gagai stayed hot with a one-under 35 to claim medalist honors again. Haynes was next with a 45, Rudmann had a 46 while Christian and Boggess tied at 47.

"Dennis is really starting to play well. Seth Haynes played well this week and Nick has played well this week. Top to bottom, we're starting to play well," Kerns said.

"Jay has improved a lot from last year. He's probably six or seven shots better. That's a lot. I'm proud of all our guys. They're all playing pretty well."