File photo

St. Bernard’s will carry some momentum into what will be a huge conference opener in girls soccer next week.

On Friday, the Crusaders hosted Middletown in their final tune-up game and won comfortably 5-0.

With the win, they improved to 5-1-1 on the season, with their only loss so far coming against Ferndale, the same team they face in Tuesday’s Little 4 opener at Crusader Field.

“It was a really good team performance. I’m proud of the girls,” head coach Jeff Sellars said. 

It’s been a challenging couple of weeks for the team, with multiple players missing due to injury and sickness, forcing other players to play out of position.

But the team responded on Friday.

Malia Masayos continued her impressive start to the season with a hat trick of goals, including two in the opening half.

“Malia Masayos had a stellar game,” Sellars said. “She was always a threat.”

Amber Smith added a pair of goals, one in each half, while Eliana Sellars had two assists.

The SB defense also had a big game in front of impressive freshman goalie Katiyn Amis, who recorded a clean sheet between the posts.

“Kaitlyn commanded the box today, and her skill, hustle and communication are invaluable to us,” the head coach said. 

The young shot-stopper got plenty of help from a defensive unit that included Sahara Tupua, Paula Bullock, Chloe Grunden and Carli Baum.

“They brought composure under pressure, communicated well and anticipated plays before they happened,” Jeff Sellars said of his back line.

Smith also had a good day in midfield and was tenacious along with teammate Xochiti Granados, while Macie Wantt “did a fantastic job linking up with our own attack,” according to the coach, 

Up front, CJ Figas worked hard all game, while Eliana Sellars continually caused the Middletown defense concerns with her impressive dribbling and passing.

“Her two efforts were rewarded with two assists,” the coach said.

Tuesday’s big showdown is set for 4 p.m.

Submitted photo – The St. Bernard’s players celebrate their win on Friday.