By Corey W. Campbell | The Miami Herald :

The Killian baseball team is on a four-game winning streak after defeating Varela 14-2 on Thursday afternoon.

The Cougars (4-1) were led by Charlie Durkee, who went 3 for 4 with a home run and three RBI.

Killian won the District 16-6A championship last year, but coach Angel Herrera has higher expectations than last season.

“There a lot of great of teams out there in Dade County – just to get out of the district is a challenge,’’ Herrera said. “We are hoping to make a run through regions, but we are a long ways away. We will attemp to be the best we can be.’’

Killian has had recent wins against South Dade and Florida Christian. The one loss came against LaSalle in the season opener.

“We have really good leadership with kids that have really stepped up: Ruben Munoz, Theo Castillo and Gabriel Llanes and Mandy Alvarez,’’ Herrera said. “Llanes shut out Palm Bay Melbourne and was the winning pitcher against South Dade. Alverez has hit .600 this season.’’

The Cougars have averaged sevens runs a game with eight home runs.

WP: McLean Becton 2-0. LP: Noel Davila. Top performers: Charlie Durkee 3 for 4, HR, 3 RBIs. Nick Mira 2 for 4. Ruben Munoz 1 for 2, 3 RBIs. KIL 4-1.