By Bob McPhee,Staff writer

DIXFIELD – Receiving a scare in their first meeting, the Dirigo girls came out Monday and utilized a team approach to remain unbeaten in the Mountain Valley Conference.

Four players reached double figures, led by senior Alexa Kaubris’ game-high 13 points, and the Cougars eventually pulled away for a convincing 56-31 victory against Mt. Abram at DeFoe Gymnasium.

The anticipated highly-competitive game lasted briefly as Dirigo simply had too much depth. The Roadrunners were the last team to beat the Cougars in an MVC game several years ago.

“We came out with a lot more intensity tonight,” Kaubris said. “We knew Mt. Abram would be feeling pretty good about themselves because our last game against them was close (a two-point win). So, coach gave us one of his big speeches before the game to remind us.”

Dirigo (17-0) went on a 10-0 run to take a 22-11 lead in the second quarter. Kaubris (seven rebounds) and Brooke Weston (11 points) started it with each making a pair of free throws. Weston, a senior, then made a basket on a turnaround shot in the paint and Shannon Daley scored on a followup.

The Cougars dominated the glass with Michelle Holmquist (12 points, nine rebounds) and Holly Knight (12 points, nine rebound) producing numerous second and third chances.

Mt. Abram (10-7) trailed 12-11 following a pair of 3-pointers by Logan Walker. The Roadrunners shot 32 percent from the floor and committed 29 turnovers.

“Dirigo played with a lot more intensity,” Mt. Abram coach Doug Lisherness said. “They were a lot more physical and we didn’t match up very well. I thought we did at times, but it wasn’t enough.”

Brianna Wilkins scored nine points and Brittany York had eight rebounds.

The Cougars trapping defense produced 11 steals as Mallory Child, Katherine Gagne, Katie Hutchinson and Abby Fenstermacher enjoyed quality playing time.

Dirigo shot 32 percent from the floor and made 14 of 19 free throws. The Cougars displayed a great deal of patience on offense and scored 21 points in the third quarter to lead 47-20.

“That was one of our intentions,” Kaubris said. “We wanted to pass the ball around and look for high percentage shots. The plan was to get the ball inside to Holly and Michelle.”