  We exhibit the appropriate variables allowing the plus-minus (Z(2))
`reduction' of the Wilson loop operator which provides a direct measure of the
thin, thick and `mixed' Z(2) topological, gauge-invariant vortices in SU(2)
LGT. Simulations with the Wilson action, as well as a perfect action smoothing
procedure, show the string tension to be reproduced from the contributions of
these excitations.
