The back line shined for Lathrop’s boys soccer team Friday in its Western Athletic Conference road match at first-place Grace Davis.

They settled for a 0-0 tie, but Lathrop (2-1-1 WAC, 6-6-2 overall) is proving that it can compete with the top teams in the league.

“We didn’t get too much of a threat until the end,” Lathrop coach Alfredo Reynaga said. “The defense played their best game, so far. (Grace Davis) got the better of us in the first half, but once we settled in we were able to control the tempo of the game.

“We played really well against a great team that is undefeated (in conference play), but we know we can play with them.”

Javier Galvez and freshman Eduardo Torres anchored the defense from their center-back positions. Miguel Gonzalez was at right back, and Alexis Navarro started in place of usual starter Carlos Santos (sick) at left back.

There were few scoring chances for either team. Ociel Mora had the best look on a 1v1 opportunity but was thwarted by Grace Davis freshman keeper Yurem Bonilla. Josue Navarro had two saves for Lathrop.

Grace Davis is now 3-0-1 in WAC play, 9-2-1 overall.

Lathrop is taking a break from game action and won’t play again until Jan. 4 at home against Johansen.

Junior varsity

Grace Davis 2, Lathrop 1

Francisco Martinez provided the lone goal for Lathrop.