Cardinal, Columbus square off to open season

ELDON — Cardinal played host to Columbus Monday night in a match between Southeast Iowa Super Conference North and South opponents.

In a game that marked both team’s start to the season, it was the Comets who came out on top, defeating the Wildcats 49-25.

Cardinal dominated on the defensive side of the ball, creating 25 turnovers and only allowing Columbus to reach double digits in a quarter once.

The Comets lead the contest 16-2 after the first quarter and 33-8 at halftime. Columbus played well in the final two quarters, holding the Comets to a total of 16 points, but it was too little to late as they struggled to find the bottom of the net.

Shooting and turnovers were where the Wildcats struggled.

The Comets shot 36.2% from the field and 33.3% from three, while the Wildcats had a 23.8 field goal percentage, and no made 3-pointers.

Cynthia Albert led the Cardinal with 11 points, seven rebounds and four assists. Emma Becker followed with 10 points, nine assists, and five steals. Ava Ferrell also poured in 10 points with six rebounds and three steals.

Kinsey Hissem and Nicoa McClure rounded out the Comets scoring, both finishing with eight points. Hissem grabbed six boards and McClure five.

Sera Vela paced the Wildcats with 12 points, six steals, and five rebounds. Lily Coil ended with six points. Frannie Sosa finished with three points. Libby White grabbed seven rebounds, while Aracely Garza had five.

Comments: hunter.moeller@southeastiowaunion.com