By RYAN ARENA

Sports Editor

It’s been a bumpy start to the new-year for West St. John — it was just 1-3 in 2009 headed into its district opener this past week against East Iberville.

But that’s in the past. Now, the only stat the Rams care about is its district mark — 1-0.

Alton Joseph’s 32 points paced the team in its 69-58 victory over the Tigers on Tuesday night in Edgard.

“These district wins are always important,” said Edwards. “Those get you to the playoffs, and that’s what we’re aiming for. Hopefully, along the way we can win another district title.”

Terrance Nathan added 15 for the Rams (7-11, 1-0), his second straight game in double figures.

“We’re looking for everyone to contribute more. Alton has been carrying us in the early part of the season,” Edwards said. “Dray (Joseph) has been a little banged up. Terrance has been stepping up. If we can get three to four guys giving us that solid production, that would put us in a good position.”

The teams were tied at 16 after a quarter, but West St. John began to pull away after that. The Rams outscored the Tigers 39-23 in the second and third quarters to take firm control.

East Iberville rallied in the fourth quarter, cutting the WSJ lead to eight. But the Rams kept the lead from dwindling further.

“We made a couple of subs to rest some players, and they made a push. But we were able to get going again,” Edwards said.

Edwards also noted an improved perimeter shooting touch by his team, something he’s noted the team has needed to emerge.

“We shot a little better from the outside than we have been, and I want to see us continue to improve there,” he said. “And that will open things up even more for Alton and our inside guys.”

Donavon Richardson led East Iberville with 20 points. .