MATTAWA - The Wahluke High School soccer team learned the value of a good goal keeper like Alan Caro in the Warriors' most important win to date.

Leading 2-1 against unbeaten Granger, the Warriors were called for a penalty kick in the 70th minute. That gave one Spartan a 1-on-1 opportunity from 12 yards against Caro, and Caro responded with a save that settled the outcome.

"He read the kicker," coach Arthur deVictoria said.

That read improved Wahluke to 5-1 in the SCAC with five straight triumphs since a season-opening loss to Highland. It left Wahluke, Granger and Highland with one loss each in first place.

The Warriors resume action this evening with a contest at arch-rival Royal. It should be a good game. Royal is in the SCAC title mix.

This was a championship-like match, with both teams going nearly a half without scoring. Then there was an explosion by Warrior forward Juan Estrada.

In the 41st minute, Estrada took a centering pass from freshman Emmanuel Hidalgo and drove the ball into the netting. Two minutes later, Estrada was fouled, and he converted the free kick.

Granger scored in the 62nd minute off a corner kick but was held at bay most of the game. The Spartans took only five shots to 15 for Wahluke.

Earlier last week, Wahluke won its fourth straight with a 2-1 victory at pesky Warden. The issue was settled in a 4-1 shootout.

Wahluke's Ramon Bravo scored in the 23rd minute off an assist by Librado Barragan. Warden responded just after half-time, and the score remained 1-1 through two overtimes.

In the shootout, Caro was the key performer, limiting the Cougars to one goal. For the Warriors, there were goals by Charlie Ramos, Hidalgo, Barajas and Alexis Anaya.

The game was tight throughout. Wahluke needed four saves from Caro in regulation. The Warriors had 14 shots to eight for the Cougars.