The Crusaders sent out a statement of intent to their conference rivals in girls soccer with a big win in their season opener this week.

St. Bernard’s kicked off the new campaign at Fortuna on Monday and came away with an impressive 3-0 win over the Big 4 school.

Returning all-league player Eliana Sellars netted twice in the win, once either side of halftime, and that was more than enough for her defense, which posted the shutout.

Malia Masayos opened the scoring for the visitors and Sellars added the second from the penalty spot to put them up 2-0 at the interval.

But the big story of the game was the team defense and a strong start to her high school career by freshman goalkeeper Kaitlyn Amis.

Amis, according to St. Bernard’s head coach Jeff Sellars, “had some stellar plays” on her way to the clean sheet.

Paula Bullock and Chloe Grundson also impressed and anchored the team defense.

“They all contributed in keeping the clean sheet,” Jeff Sellars said of his defense.

Two other returning players — Alyssa Boham and Amber Smith — also played key roles for the Crusaders in midfield and “helped us maintain possession,” the coach added.

Up front, Cadence Figas continually caused problems for the Fortuna defense all game, alongside the impressive Eliana Sellars and Masayos.

“The pressing of our forwards, particularly Cadence Figas, was impressive,” the coach said. “Her tenacity was infectious for the whole team.

“Our goal scorers, Eliana and Malia, had great games. They kept the pressure on Fortuna’s defense and had some great footwork and passing.”

No details were immediately available for the Huskies.