The Wolverines outscored the Bobcats in the second half but couldn’t overcome a slow start losing 45-36 at Richmond in Mountain Valley Conference basketball action Tuesday night.

Haiden Dunning scored eight points for Wiscasset, including a three-point basket in the third period finishing with 10 points. He also grabbed 12 rebounds – seven of those defensive. Josh Gabriele scored in every period ending the game with 10 points and Matt Chapman had nine points and four steals for the Wolverines.

The Bobcats got off to a fast start. Mason Blake scored six points in the opening period. Trifectas by Nick Adams and Calob Denimore helped stake the hosts to an 18-1 first period advantage. Gabriele put Wiscasset Middle High School on the scoreboard hitting one of two free throw attempts.

In the second quarter, Blake hit three of four foul shots and Denimore sunk a three-point basket and two free throws. Loyola, Gabriele, Dunning and Zach Brewer put points on the scoreboard for the Wolverines, with Brewer going four for four from the free throw line.

Richmond was up 29-9 at the half and 43-27 headed into the final eight minutes of the game. Kenny Bing had a big third period for the ’Cats collecting nine points including a three.

Denimore finished with a game-high 14 points. Bing and Blake each had 11.

RHS converted 13 of 19 foul shot attempts compared to 5 of 18 for WMHS.

The win improves Richmond’s record to 5-11 and keeps it in the hunt for a postseason playoff spot. After winning its season opener against Carrabec, Wiscasset has dropped 14 games in a row.

On Thursday, Jan. 31, WMHS will travel to Monmouth to face the Mustangs. The last chance to see the Wolverines at home will be this Saturday, at 2:30 when they host Winthrop.