Driving: Bria Williamson (#21) drives in the lane as she looks for a layup during Monday’s contest. The Cardinals went through Worthington 80-24 as they look to Marshall on Tuesday, Feb 16.

FAIRMONT – The Fairmont Cardinals took care of business Monday, extending their winning streak by defeating Worthington 80-24 in a conference matchup.

Tempo was the name of the game early as the Cardinals played on their speed. They set up their shots and executed open looks on the offensive side, and forced several turnovers on the defensive side with their high-pressure defense. Cardinals Head Coach Sara Junkermeier said they take pride in playing intense defense.

“It opens up a lot of opportunities to get the best breakaway layups and the looks that we want,” she said. “I thought we did a good job with that tonight and getting the looks that we wanted.”

Dominating on both ends of the floor allowed the Cardinals to jump out to a 48-10 lead at halftime. The second half saw playing time spread around more, giving everyone looks and opportunities to showcase their skills in the late stages of the season. The Cardinals continued to roll, and as time expired, they had a commanding final score of 80-24.

During their performance and looking forward to Tuesday, Feb 17th’s Big South Conference Championship matchup, Junkermeier said one thing she talked to her players about is shot selection.

“When you’re open, you’ve got to be willing to take the shot,” she said. “That’s where we’re at in the season, and that’s how it has to go from here on out. We have to be able to knock it down because they’re going to put more pressure on us. That’s the joy of playoffs.”

As they face their biggest game of the season, Junkermeier had one final thought for Marshall.

“Bring it on,” she said.

Brylee Miller led the way with 24 points, 14 rebounds, and seven assists. Bria Williamson had 19 points and 10 rebounds, while Olive Kawecki and Madi Thompson had 11 points.

The Fairmont Cardinals (25-1) face off against Marshall Tuesday, Feb 17, at 7:30 p.m. in the Fairmont High School Main Gym.