Fullerton, CA — https://www.hiuroyals.com/article/2796 FULLERTON, Calif. - The Royals hosted the Firebirds of the University of Saint Katherine in a non-conference matchup Monday night at Darling Pavilion. The Royal's (8-0, 2-0 GSAC) offense continues to stay hot as they push their winning streak to eight after defeating the Firebirds (6-3) 85-55. Shiane Talley (SO/Rialto, CA) started off the game for the Royals scoring the first basket of the night, Talley stayed hot scoring the Royals' first five points of the night. With the Royals staying consistent with their aggressive defense, they caused eight turnovers by the end of the first quarter. Their relentless defense helped push their offense to an early 14 points forcing a Firebird timeout. The Royals were able to push their lead to as large as 18 points by the end of the first quarter. The Firebirds did not let the lead scare them and started to fight back scoring seven quick points at the start of the second quarter. Saint Katherine's pressure on defense was not enough to phase the Royal's offense, HIU was able to keep their composure to close out the half leading 46-33. The Royals continued to apply pressure on the Firebird's defense at the start of the third quarter with a three-point shot from Rhianne Omori (JR/Honolulu, HI). Jeanette Fine (FR/Las Vegas, NV) and Shailissa Jarrett dominated the Firebird's defense pushing the Royals to grow their lead to as much as 25 points. Junior, Ana Resendiz (JR/Ontario, CA) hit two triples in the third frame to help add to the Royals lead. The Firebirds slowly gained the momentum they needed at the start of the fourth quarter but the Royals did not back down, as a jump shot by Ysabelle Halemano (JR/Kalihi, HI) pushed the Royals margin above 30. Rhianne Omori led the Royals with 14 points and 6 assists, followed by Ana Resendiz with 14 points and 3 assists in tonight's 85-55 win over the Firebirds. HIU shot 37.8% from the field and 32.7% from beyond the arc while holding Saint Katherine to 30.6% from the field and 19.2% from beyond the arc. The Royals will return to action tomorrow in Darling Pavilion against La Sierra University.