The El Camino men’s and women’s cross-country teams battled Friday morning at the historic Mt. SAC Invitational, placing seventh and eighth respectively, in a highly competitive field.

Top ranked teams from all over the state and even Arizona competed, and the Warriors, who entered the race ranked 14th in the Southern California women’s division, held their own.

Coach Dean Lofgren saw improvement, but believes the team can do more as the season nears its climax.

“We had a few run quite well, and a couple others who were off,” Lofgren said. “When they’re all running well on the same day, we’re going to be a much better team.”

Sophomore Hannah Griffie led the Warriors, finishing 24th with a 19:55 time, followed by freshman Jennifer Villarreal (39th; 20:11), sophomore Judith Torres (61st; 20:58), freshmen Jaquelin Rodriguez (78th; 21:43) and Xiomara Perkins (83rd; 22:15), according to results verified by Coach Lofgren.

As for the men, Lofgren said the team ran “tighter” on Friday, and while they still can improve, the team ran well given the injuries and other issues around.

Solomon Kanehailua was first for EC’s all-freshman top five, placing 20th overall with a 21:50 time.

He was followed by Chance Weston (46th; 22:40), David Hodges (61st; 22:54), Jacob Helfgott (67th; 23:00) and Michael Moody (68th; 23:03), according to results verified by Lofgren.

Up next, the Warriors are hosting the South Coast Conference Championships on Oct. 30 in Palos Verdes, where they will compete for the league title.