BRANDON — The Cathedral golf team might not be able to claim a state championship today, but a runner-up finish would be almost as sweet.

The Green Wave sit in second place after shooting a team score of 357 on the first day of the Class 1A state tournament.

Cathedral is four shots ahead of third place Thrasher and eight shots clear of fourth place Puckett.

Barring a spectacular collapse, St. Aloysius will win the championship. The Flashes have a 41-shot lead after shooting a 316 on Thursday.

“St. Al has got it pretty much wrapped up,” Cathedral golf coach Kurt Russ said. “The battle is for second place.”

Cathedral was led on Thursday by Steve Scarborough, who shot a season-best 79.

However, the other Green Wave golfers couldn’t match Scarborough. Avery Middleton shot an 88 while Elliot McCann carded a 90 and Aaron Sandifer came home with an even 100.

“I am pleased with the way Steve played, but the rest of them can do better,” Russ said. “I expect better scores from them tomorrow. They have a feel for the course now.”

Russ described the course at Bay Pointe Country Club in Brandon as very tight and hilly.

“The layout reminds me a little bit of The Masters,” Russ said. “There are tall pines with real narrow fairways. It’s also kind of hilly like The Masters.”

And even though Cathedral might not be in contention for the championship, Russ said it would be quite an accomplishment to bring home the silver medal.

“Second place would be an improvement over last year, and that’s what we’re shooting for,” Russ said. “We would be mighty proud of second place.”