PORTLAND, Ore. (Interstat) — A surging Montana State team riding a six-game winning streak will look to continue its dominance over a struggling Portland State squad when the Big Sky Conference women’s basketball rivals meet Thursday night at the Stott Center. The Bobcats (20-6, 11-2 Big Sky), firmly in contention for the conference regular-season title, have been one of the league’s most formidable teams. Their recent run includes a decisive 91-43 victory over these same Vikings just four weeks ago in Bozeman. Portland State (6-21, 3-10) has lost eight of its last nine games and will seek to avoid a season sweep on its home floor. Montana State is powered by standout guard Taylee Chirrick, who is coming off a 14-point, 8-rebound, 4-assist performance in a 67-61 win over Idaho State last Saturday. Chirrick torched Portland State for 31 points and 12 rebounds in the January meeting. She has averaged 18.1 points over her last seven contests, providing consistent scoring and playmaking. The Vikings will counter with guard Cici Ellington, their leading scorer in recent outings. Ellington dropped 23 points in an 87-78 road loss at Eastern Washington last Saturday. She will need a significant performance to keep pace with the high-powered Bobcats, who have won their last six games by an average margin of 22 points. Portland State’s primary hope lies in reversing its defensive fortunes. The Vikings have allowed 80 or more points in four of their last six losses. Containing Chirrick and Montana State’s efficient offense, which shot over 50% from the field in the first matchup, will be paramount. For Montana State, the game represents a critical step in maintaining momentum before a key road test at Sacramento State on Saturday. Portland State aims to salvage pride and build confidence before hosting Montana this weekend. Tipoff is scheduled for 7 p.m. PST.