Cardinals Battle No. 12 State Fair, Fall 68–62

PARK HILLS, Mo. — The Mineral Area College Cardinals women's basketball team went toe-to-toe with No. 12-ranked State Fair Community College on Friday, January 23 but came up just short, falling 68–62 at home inside Bob Sechrest Fieldhouse.

The game was tight throughout, with neither team able to create significant separation early. State Fair held a slim 30–22 advantage at halftime after edging the Cardinals 14–12 in the first quarter and 16–10 in the second.

Mineral Area came out of the locker room with strong energy, using a 22-point third quarter to close the gap and swing momentum. The Cardinals outscored the Roadrunners 22–18 in the period, cutting the deficit to four heading into the final quarter.

Despite the push, the Roadrunners closed the game by winning the fourth quarter 20–18 to preserve the six-point victory.

Mariah Dallas led Mineral Area with 18 points on 7-of-13 shooting, adding two rebounds and two assists. Presley Holweg recorded a double-double with 12 points and 11 rebounds, while Casey Teague contributed 10 points, seven rebounds, and an impressive five blocked shots. PJ Reutzel added six points, and Karma Jones finished with five points and six assists to go along with four rebounds.

With the loss, MAC falls to 12-8 overall and 1-4 in Region 16 play.  The Cardinals will return to action on Wednesday, January 28 when they travel to Mt. Carmel, IL to take on Wabash Valley at 5pm.