(Atlantic, IA) – The Treynor Cardinals spoiled opening night in Atlantic, beating the Trojans 51-31 on Friday. Although the Trojan defense played relatively well, it was a lack of offensive production, combined with good defense from the Cardinals, that was the story of the night. Treynor defended the inside extremely well, limiting Katrina Williams and Atlantic’s post production. Coupled with turnovers, the Trojans managed just five points in each of the first two quarters. Although the offense had more production in the second half, it wasn’t nearly enough to chip away at the lead Treynor had established.

As expected in the first game of the season, neither team flew out of the gate. A Zoey Kirchoff 3-pointer gave Atlantic the lead early, and it stayed that way for nearly three minutes. However, it was clear that the Treynor defense was keying in on defending the post. Although the Trojans had opportunities down low throughout the game, Cardinal defenders collapsed, causing the Trojan shooters to be off. However, despite the lack of offense, the Trojans held Treynor to 15 points in the first quarter and were well within striking distance.

The second quarter was Treynor’s best offensive quarter. Scoring 13 points, the Cardinals knocked down three 3-pointers, including two from Nora Konz, who tied for the team lead in scoring, finishing the game with 12 points. They were quick and decisive with their ball movement, avoiding a large number of turnovers. Meanwhile, the Trojan offense continued to be stifled. In addition to struggling with turnovers at times, Treynor moved to a press, which caused issues for the Trojans. Freshman Maddie McLaren added her second field goal of the game, but Makenna Schroeder’s first long ball of the season was their only other points Atlantic mustered as they went into the half down 28-10.

Although the second half wouldn’t alter the course of the game, the Trojan offense did play better. They managed 10+ points in each of the final two frames, led by their freshman. Kaitlyn Hickman tallied eight points in the fourth quarter, while Maddie McLaren added six more and ended as the team’s leading scorer with 10. However, the Trojans were never able to build any momentum as the Cardinals stayed consistent on their way to a 51-31 win. Head coach Dan Vargason said that turnovers played a big role in the lack of offensive production.

He felt that some missed opportunities early cost them.

However, there were positive takeaways. In addition to the defense playing relatively well, the production from the freshman was a good sign.

The Trojans, now 0-1, will turn their attention to Denison-Schleswig as they travel to face the Monarchs on Tuesday. Vargason knows that they will have to cut down on the turnovers and continue to improve and clean up their game.

Tuesday night’s game in Denison is scheduled for 7:30 pm. You can catch the action on KJANTV with coverage beginning at 7:20 pm.