HATTIESBURG – Sacred Heart roared to an 8-2 Tuesday night victory over the Loyd Star Hornets in the opening round of the Class 1A-2A-3A state soccer playoffs. The Crusaders led 7-0 at halftime.

“Sacred Heart is a very good team,” said Loyd Star coach Dale Brister. His Hornets finished 6-9 on the season.

The Hornets got second-half goals from Cori Crowe and Seth Farmer. Goalie Cole Moak made 4 saves.

On defense, Brenden Brister led Loyd Star with 5 takeaways, 8 clearances and 1 blocked shot.