By Marla Jones, Managing Editor • marla@southerntorch.com

JACKSONVILLE, Ala— The Fort Payne Lady Wildcats (25-7) dominated the Clay-Chalkville Cougars (17-11) in the first game of Alabama High School Athletic Association (AHSAA) regional play. 

The Lady Wildcats took charge in the first quarter and never allowed Clay-Chalkville to recover. The score was tied for only 20 seconds during the game. The Lady Wildcats outscored Clay-Chalkville 23-16, in the first quarter. 

In the second, Fort Payne outscored the Cougars, 13-7 and went into the half with the 36-23 advantage. 

Kylie Neil finished the game for the Lady Wildcats with 26 points and 16 rebounds.

The Lady Wildcats outscored the Cougars 13-9 in the third and had their largest lead, of 19 points,  at the 3:04  mark of the third.

Clay-Chalkville scored 14 points to the Lady Wildcats 12 in the fourth but was not able to mount a comeback. The Lady Wildcats defeated Clay-Chalkville, 61-46.

The Fort Payne Lady Wildcats will face Hazel Green Trojans in the semi-finals on Tuesday, February 17, at 12:30 pm.