It wasn’t exactly how the EMCS Wolverines expected to start the season.
The Edward Milne Community School senior boys’ basketball team lost its opening game 66-55 against rival Royal Bay Ravens on Tuesday night in Sooke.
The Wolverines dug a hole early in the first quarter, falling behind 28-6, before playing well over the next three quarters. It wasn’t enough to claim a win.
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“We can’t throw away the game in the first eight minutes,” said coach Trevor Bligh.
“The kids just clammed up, forgot everything … and caused a whole bunch of turnovers.”
But there were promising signs from the team as it shot 15 per cent from the line, rebounded well, and received strong defensive play from guard Taye Julien.
Top point-getter for the Wolverines was Wade Fitzner with 16 and Nick Card netted 18.
Tak Nakano led Royal Bay with 13 points.
In other action Tuesday, Reynolds beat Stelly’s 64-43; Esquimalt thumped Vic High 83-57; and Parkland lost to Glenlyon Norfolk 100-65.
On Thursday, the Wolverines travel to Duncan to play in the annual Cowichan Welcome Back tournament.
First up for Sooke is the No. 1 ranked NDSS Islanders from Nanaimo.
“It doesn’t get easier,” said Bligh. “We just have to work harder.”
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