Coming back from an 11-day gameless stretch over the holiday break, the Warrenton girls basketball team had to compensate for a rusty shooting performance.The Warriors used a tenacious defense and relentless rebounding effort to run away from Fort Zumwalt East 46-34 on the road last Friday.“We were able to get the shots we wanted, but we just couldn’t make them,” said Coach Greg Williams, who added on most occasions, that would result in a loss.But Warrenton was able to hold the opposition to single-digit scoring in each of the first three quarters, making up for a 4-of-18 night at the free-throw line.“We played really tough defense and rebounded well,” said Williams. The Warriors led 11-8 after the first quarter of what Williams described as a fast-paced, physical game.“We came out with good intensity and played hard to establish the lead,” said Williams. “It was a rough game against a scrappy team.”Warrenton kept a constant edge, carrying a 25-13 advantage into halftime.“The game was never really in doubt,” said Williams, whose team did most of its damage inside.The Warriors hit just two three-pointers but were able to get balanced distribution from their guards.Senior Hannah Sutton and sophomore Jenny Jansen each netted 13 points, with Sutton draining a halfcourt buzzer beater to conclude the first half.Williams says his team rode that wave of momentum the remainder of the game, leading 37-20 after three quarters.Junior post player Amanda Lafaver contributed six points and was a rebounding force down low, helping out along with Jansen.“Lafaver did a good job inside,” said Williams. “We had to battle some injuries.”Each suffered minor ailments, with Lafaver hurting her hand and Jansen hurting a knee.The Warriors continued to see solid play from freshman Ashtyn Dixon, who dropped six points.Senior Kylie Toebben added four points.“Kylie did a good job defensively,” said Williams.Warrenton improved to 5-1.LAFAVER STEPS UPBill Barrett photo.