SALEM, Ore. — Archie Caldwell found the back of the net in the 78th minute as the Pacific Lutheran University men's soccer team extended its win streak to five games with a 2-1 victory over Claremont-Mudd-Scripps Colleges on Sunday at Willamette University's Sparks Field.

"Today was a great test heading into NWC play next weekend," said Head Coach John Yorke.

"Claremont is perennially one of the top programs in the nation and to be able to grind out a hard fought win on the road is something we will be able to gain confidence from."

Trevor Thompson opened the scoring in the 13th minute, netting his third goal of the season off a pass from Sammy Tafolla. PLU (5-0) held the lead until the Stags (0-2-3) hit an equalizer in the 56th minute. Caldwell played the role of hero in the 78th minute, notching a header goal off a corner kick from Thompson.

The Lutes and Stags each ripped off 16 shots apiece over the course of the 90-minute match, with both teams taking seven shots in the first half and nine in the second stanza. PLU owned an 8-5 edge in shots on frame while taking five of the game's nine corner kicks.

Nicholas Gaston earned the win in goal, logging all 90 minutes and making four saves. Claremont's Kevin Box made six saves while yielding a pair of goals. 

"The guys battled hard all weekend in two tough wins and we're happy to be coming home withe those results."

PLU begins its quest for a fifth straight Northwest Conference title next Saturday, opening league play against Linfield University in McMinnville, Oregon.