NEWPORT NEWS, Va. - The Apprentice School men's basketball team battled but came up short 78-73 to Villa Maria on Friday night.

ON THE COURT: Playing their first game of the 2019 calendar year, the Apprentice School hung tough with a quick Villa Maria team. The Builders shot 38% from the floor in the first half and was led by Drew Walton and Caleb Mielewski, who each had eight points. The Vikings shot 42% from the floor and was led by Jonathan Pozo, who had 10 points at the break. Opposite of the teams' first meeting earlier in the season, the Builders turned in a strong second half, shooting 52% from the floor. A pair of three-pointers sandwiched a Corey Joyner jumper to push the Builders lead to six with 14 minutes remaining. The teams battled back and forth in a half that featured 16 lead changes. Tied at 70 with two minutes remaining, the Vikings went on a 6-0 run over the next minute and a half. Sam Morris drained a three-pointer to cut the deficit to three. After a timeout and a missed free throw, Brandon Joyner missed a deep three-pointer for the tie and the Vikings converted two free throws to clinch the game.

BEHIND THE BOX SCORE:

• Marion  Moore led the Builders with 20 points, including 16 in the second half.
• Caleb Mielewski turned in a strong effort with a 11 points and 10 rebounds for a double-double.
• Brandon Joyner added 15 points including four three-pointers.
• Drew Walton added a double-double with 14 points and 10 boards.
• The Builders turned the ball over 18 times which led to 23 points.
• The Vikings held a 44-28 advantage in the paint.
• Villa Maria was led by Jonathan Pozo, who had 21 points.

The Builders return to action on Saturday afternoon as they host Clinton College at 2 p.m.