BY ROGER SMITH
MOUNTAIN CITIZEN

PAINTSVILLE — Martin County Middle School Cardinals traveled to Johnson Central to defeat the Eagles for the second time in less than a week. The Cards led this one from start to finish and when the horn sounded were on top 59-49.

The Cards shot out of the gate early taking a 21-14 first quarter lead. The tandem of Bryson Dials and Jarrod Haney proved too much for the Eagles, as the two scored 16 of the 21 first-quarter points.

“This was a huge win for our program,” MCMS coach Joshua Penix said. “Anytime you can go to Johnson Central and come out with a win, it says a lot about your kids. I’m proud of my team.”

Dials caught fire and went off for 32 points to lead all scorers. Haney followed with 12 points. Brayden Marcum chipped in five points, Liam Fields and Chase Hinkle each added four, and Dylan Yates had two.

Kaleb Callahan and Jaden Daniel led the Eagles with 11 points each. Kyler Callahan added seven points, Bryson Music had five, Stevens four, Blair three, Jenkins and McKenzie two each, and Perry finished with one.