Photos by Ray Hamill/HumboldtSports.com – South Fork’s Marian Del Rio, left, and St. Bernard’s Emma Wilson battle for possession of the ball during Friday’s game.

By Ray Hamill — Josie Peterson appears to be adapting quite well to her new surroundings.

The St. Bernard’s senior, who is a volleyball, basketball and softball standout, joined the soccer team this season and has made an immediate impact — at both ends of the field.

Peterson has been a solid option in goal for head coach Phil Rouse through the early part of the season, splitting time with Rachel Rodrigues.

On Friday, however, it was her contributions at the other end of the field that stood out, with two goals in a 4-0 win over South Fork at Crusader Field.

“Her game IQ is well ahead of her experience,” Rouse said.

The win was the second straight for the Crusaders, who improved to 2-1 in league play, while South Fork dropped to 0-5.

In a physical encounter, the Cubs stayed with the home team for much of the game and only trailed by a goal at the interval, before fading late against their deeper opponents.

Sophomore Alondra Amador also netted for the Crusaders, as did senior Marayah Tomlinson, who is enjoying a big season.

Rouse was particularly impressed with the way his players were able to move the ball.

“When we pass the ball, we’re effective,” he said.

Sophomore South Fork goalie Lyndsee Bewer, who has grown into a very reliable shot stopper, saved a second-half penalty to keep her team in contention.

South Fork’s Alahni Christianson defends St. Bernard’s Josie Peterson on Friday.

SB also missed an earlier penalty that sailed over the crossbar.

Rouse was impressed with what he saw from the visitors.

“I think their program has come a long way,” he said. “(Coach) Ann (Constantino) does a good job. They have a bunch of good sophomores and juniors and they’re going to a lot better next year.”