A defensive stalemate turned into an offensive onslaught in Lathrop’s Western Athletic Conference boys soccer opener against visiting Ceres on Monday.

Patrick Martinez scored two goals and an assist during the action-packed second half, powering the Spartans to a 4-2 victory.

“We had (goal-scoring) opportunities and were controlling the tempo, but we were unable to capitalize on our chances (in the first half),” Lathrop coach Alfredo Reynaga said. “The boys fought hard and stayed composed knowing we were going to get more opportunities. It was a tough game, and Ceres played very well.”

Both teams were whistled for 14 fouls, and Ceres had seven corner kicks to just two for Lathrop.

After a scoreless first half, Lathrop (5-2-2) broke the ice when Martinez’s corner kick found its way to Daniel Patino on the far post. Ociel Mora doubled the lead on a breakaway set up by Eduardo Torres.

The Bulldogs (2-4-1) answered with two unanswered, including a penalty kick that knotted the score.

Martinez restored order for the Spartans, burying a free kick from just outside the penalty box. He then iced the win with a breakaway goal, receiving a pass from Alan Hernandez before beating a defender off the dribble.

Goalie Aron Hernandez recorded four saves.

Lathrop welcomes Pacheco on Wednesday.

GIRLS SOCCER

Ripon Christian 5, Denair 0

The Knights (6-0-0) kicked off Southern Athletic League play with a one-sided road win.

Dayna Koolhaas set the tone with the first of her four goals just three minutes into the match. Denair (2-4-1) rounded out the score with an own goal.

Alanna Blanco, Brooke Barnes and Reece Drost each had an assist. Goalie Tara Heida notched her fifth shutout of the season.

Ripon Christian travels to Gustine on Wednesday.

Manteca 9, Grace Davis 0

Alexia Alva netted two goals and two assists during the non-league drubbing in Modesto. Freshman Paisley Coenenberg also had a brace.

Serenity Cerritos, Sienna Jones, Joanna Roa and Makyla Spencer each contributed one goal and one assist. Corinne Jones added one goal.

The Buffs host Galt at Weston Ranch on Wednesday and travels to Half Moon Bay on Saturday.