(GILBERT, Ariz.) With new faces stepping confidently into key roles alongside the Knights' veteran core, top-ranked Gilbert Christian delivered one of its most complete performances of the season on Tuesday, blanking Northwest Christian 3-0 in regional play.

The win pushed the Knights to 6-1 overall, as Gilbert Christian controlled the tempo from start to finish with a balanced attack and composed play across all three lines.

The scoring opened early, as junior defender Lief Littlefield capitalized on a rebound in the box just 13 minutes into the match. After a header attempt on goal by senior Noah Cooper, Littlefield pounced on the loose ball and hammered it home to light up the Knights' scoreboard, surprising and thrilling the home crowd.



Gilbert Christian doubled its lead late in the first half behind a relentless effort from freshman Canaan Barnett. With just 4:31 remaining before the break, Barnett beat NWC's defenders up the field to an airborne ball courtesy of Littlefield, stretched out, fell, and slotted the ball beyond the keeper's reach for a 2-0 advantage.



The Knights added insurance in the second period with a well-executed combination play. Cooper delivered a perfectly weighted through ball to a streaking senior Brady Frederickson, who finished with a one-touch strike up the middle. The goal marked Frederickson's first game back from injury, providing a highlight moment in his return to the pitch.

Defensively, Gilbert Christian remained organized and disciplined throughout the contest, limiting Northwest Christian opportunities while maintaining possession and control for the majority of play.

In goal, junior Logan Brown made his debut between the posts, recording his first shutout of the season.

The Knights will stay home for another regional showdown on Thursday, January 22nd when they host ALA-West Foothills (6-5). Varsity kickoff is set for 6:00PM, with JV action beginning at 4:00PM.