Chris Pena’s goal in the second half lifted Wawasee to a 2-1 win at South Bend Riley. (File photo by Mike Deak)

SOUTH BEND – A goal from Juan Hertado put Wawasee over in a 2-1 boys soccer win at South Bend Riley Thursday evening.

Hertado’s goal in the 63rd minute, assisted by Bode Grimes, was the game winner for the Warriors, which move to 2-0 on the season.

South Bend got on the board in the ninth minute on a free kick, but Chris Pena and the Warriors responded two minutes late. After a long punt from keeper Dillon Drake kept sailing, Pena got under the long pass and converted the equalizer. Pena missed a golden chance to add a second, but missed a penalty in the 35th minute off the crossbar.

Riley would outshoot Wawasee 11-10, but Wawasee put six on frame to five from the hosts.

Drake would make five saves to get his second win of the season in as many chances.

“Our boys started slightly unfocused and allowed a handball free kick that led to a goal for South Bend,” noted Wawasee head coach Jordan Sharp. “Our guys woke up and responded well. We provided great movement and combination in their offensive third. But, we needed to execute our final ball slightly better.”

Wawasee will host Concord Saturday morning in the Northern Lakes Conference opener for both teams.