Dave Smialowski believed Quigley Catholic High wouldn’t be able to handle the pressure.

He was right.

Thanks to a fullcourt press to open the game, the Union boys basketball coach witnessed his Scotties shut down Spartans and claim an 84-52 WPIAL Section 1-A victory last night.

Union (2-0 section, 3-2 overall) took a 20-7 lead in the first quarter and built a 38-19 advantage by halftime.

“We knew the pressure might hurt them and we put it on from the start,” Smialowski said. “Going up at the half, that was the game right there.”

Jordan Clingensmith led all scorers with 21 points. Matt Tyson followed with 14 and Jason Burkes added 10. Tyson had three 3-pointers.

“We have some depth,” Smialowski said. “Tyson came off the bench and hit some big shots.

“Jordan Clingensmith had a good game and he needs to keep it at this level. He’s been big for us.”

Matt Adamo and Donte Calhoun each had six rebounds. Jordon Rooney had six assists and six points.