BAD AXE — Millington bounced back from an early pool-play loss to win five straight matches and capture the Bad Axe Invitational championship Saturday. The Cardinals finished the tournament 5-1, closing the day with a 25-21, 25-19 victory over Marlette in the championship match. Millington opened pool play with a 25-15, 25-19 victory over Sandusky before suffering its only loss of the tournament, falling to Harbor Beach 25-17, 25-21. The Cardinals responded with a 25-6, 25-12 win over Owendale-Gagetown to advance to bracket play. Once in the championship bracket, Millington didn't drop another set. The Cardinals defeated Deckerville 25-19, 25-21 in the quarterfinals before rolling past host Bad Axe 25-12, 25-18 in the semifinals. Millington then completed its run to the tournament title with the two-set victory over Marlette. Carly Ehrmantraut led the Cardinals throughout the tournament with 47 kills, 10 aces and 37 digs. Kallie Stevens added 31 kills and 37 digs, while Makenna Klauka finished with 19 kills. Kate Murray directed the Millington offense with 103 assists while adding eight aces and four blocks. Grace Ehrmantraut led the defense with 59 digs, and Brooklyn Barden contributed 16 kills and three blocks. Millington improved to 5-1 on the season. The Cardinals return to action Tuesday, Aug. 25, when they travel to Cass City for the Red Hawk Preseason BTC Clash. Millington is scheduled to face Ubly in the outdoor scrimmage.