ST. MARYS ? Poor free-throw shooting and a rough first half signaled the downfall for Veritas Christian’s boys basketball team in a 51-41 loss Monday at St. Mary’s Academy.

After falling behind 34-15 at halftime, the Eagles outscored St. Mary’s 26-17 in the second half to make the final margin respectable. But Veritas coach Doug Bennett said the damage done in the first half was too much to overcome.

“We played so poorly in that first half and dug ourselves a hole that was too big to come out of,” Bennett said. “I was proud of the effort the guys gave in the second half to cut into the lead. We certainly played better in that second half.”

Isaiah Dover and Ethan Scott led the Eagles with nine points apiece, while Nate Scott added seven.

The loss dropped Veritas to 7-12 on the season.

The Eagles will travel today to Manhattan to take on Flint Hills Christian.