The South Whidbey High School soccer team broke through Granite Falls’ defensive blockade for a 2-0 home win Tuesday, Oct. 15.

The Tigers (3-4, 6-6) were missing a handful of players because of injuries and grade issues and were forced to play the match with only 10 players.

“Their coach played an excellent defensive strategy of keeping eight defenders in the box — parking the bus — to pick up open players and shut down passing lanes,” South Whidbey coach Terry Swanson said. “One striker played high for a quick outlet over our centerbacks. Our team played disciplined and moved the ball around well.”

The Falcons pushed the bus out of the way twice in the first half.

Mikenna Wicher struck first on a pass from Elizabeth Haines, then Simone White beat two defenders off the dribble to add the second.

“We possessed the ball most of the game and limited Granite Falls to one shot on goal over 80 minutes,” Swanson said. “Our players were a little frustrated with not scoring more goals with the player advantage, but they understand that Granite Falls had a good defensive game plan, and our team focused on ball movement and possession.”

South Whidbey (7-0, 11-0-1) remained in first place with the win.

The Falcons play at Sultan (1-6, 1-10-2) at 6 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 17.