WESTPORT–Staples scored very early against St. Joseph, as they often do.

They scored very late, as they sometimes do.

But — uncharacteristically — those were the only two Wrecker goals Friday afternoon, at rainy Wakeman Field.

Still, that was enough. Playing their third match in five days — and fourth in eight — the blue-and-whites emerged with a workmanlike, low-intensity 2-0 win over a highly defense-minded Cadet side.

St. Joseph was winless. Yet their 0-5-1 mark did not seem to burden them. Though showing only one attacker, and employing a low block that several times caught Staples offside, they played with spirit and resolve. Their keeper was steady in back, well positioned and sure.

Just 2:30 into the game, he punched out a Wrecker corner kick. The defense failed to clear. Nico Reyna pounced and scored — a great way to celebrate his 18th birthday.

It looked like the rout was on. Reyna and Lucas Alarcon dominated midfield. Their teammates spread the field, using the width well. With defenders Thomas Pretty, Ryan Allen, Owen Green and Ciaran Kennedy stepping up smartly, the entire first half was played in the Westporters’ offensive half.

The Cadets’ first threat came 15 minutes after intermission: a free kick that flew high. It was their last real chance, too. Luke Diedrich, making his first start of the season in goal, had little to do.

Staples had several good chances. Today, their usually accurate shooting was off.

The insurance goal came with 1:13 remaining. Greyson Downes fed Adrian Rodriguez, who finished his breakaway with poise.

The win — Staples’ 9th straight this season — was a warm-up to what should be the squad’s toughest test of the year. Stamford comes to Wakeman Field Tuesday, for a 4 p.m. match. The Black Knights are 7-1-1. The only blemishes on their record are a 1-1 draw with Fairfield Warde, and a 4-1 loss to non-league South Windsor.