File photo

The Ferndale Wildcats left it late on Monday night, before pulling out an exciting victory over St. Bernard’s in girls basketball.

Trailing for almost the entire game, the Wildcats battled back from a 10-point deficit in the second half on the way to a 53-52 win.

Kyla Albee hit the game-winning basket with just a few seconds remaining, as the Cats improved to 2-2 on the season and 2-0 against Little 4 opponents.

“It was a total team effort,” head coach Jamie Ellsmore said. “When we’re playing good as a team, we have great chemistry, and they just never gave up last night.”

Haiyden Fulton led the way at both ends of the court, finishing with a team-high 19 points and playing some outstanding defense.

“Haiyden had a breakout game,” Ellsmore said. “She kept us in the game. She played great defense and that led to great offense, and she had some big shots for us.”

Teammate Emily Chavez also had a big game, finishing with 15 points, while St. Bernard’s was led by the ever-dangerous Lele Tanuvasa, who continued her impressive season with a game-high 27 points.

Madelyn Shanahan chipped in 14 points for the Crusaders, who are now 1-3.

File photo – The Wildcats in action against McKinleyville last week.

The Wildcats, meanwhile, have now beaten a pair of L4 opponents and they have been competitive in their two losses to Big 5 teams, McKinleyville and Del Norte.

And that’s an impressive start to the season for a team that features just two seniors.

“They’re a young team, but they’re very competitive,” Ellsmore said. “They’ve not been out of a game this season, and they’ve kept right in stride with (the Big 5 teams).”

Seniors Hallie Short and Jordan Langholz have been leading the way on the young roster, and setting the tone for their teammates.

Next up, the Wildcats host McKinleyville on Friday.