When the White River Hornets geared up for this final week of the South Puget Sound League 3A soccer season, they were assured of one thing – two victories would clinch a regular-season championship.

Carrying a league record of 4-1-1 through games of last week, White River took the first step in its title quest Tuesday, hosting the 3-2-1 Sumner Spartans; results came too late to be included here, but will be posted at www.courierherald.com. The regular season wraps up at 5 p.m. Friday when White River makes the short trip to battle Enumclaw High.

Should White River slip, other teams are waiting in the wings to grab the top spot the Hornets have occupied since the season began.

The SPSL 3A standings became much more interesting Friday when White River lost 2-1 at Auburn Mountainview. The Lions improved to 4-2-1 with the win while the Hornets fell to 4-1-1.

Things began on a sour note when the Lions scored less than 30 seconds into the contest. White River tied the game when Jesse Ritz scored in the 15th minute but the host Lions received the game-winner in the second half.

The Hornets had picked up their fourth league victory April 28, beating Bonney Lake 3-1. Scoring in the home victory were Evan Robertson, Justin Chase and Ricky Mau.

Reach Kevin Hanson at khanson@courierherald.com or 360-802-8205.