A tough first half for the Alden-Conger boys’ basketball team resulted in a 14-point hole at halftime and it was never able to dig out against Mankato Loyola in a 40-34 loss.

The Knights scored just 12 points in the first half, but responded with a better offensive performance in the second half.

Dillan Lein scored 13 points to lead the Knights, and Ryan Hansen and Logan Sailor each scored seven points.

It was previously reported that Alden-Conger had lost nine games in a row after losing to Lanesboro on Monday. The Knights had beaten Madelia on Jan. 20 to end a seven-game losing streak.

Alden-Conger will host Glenville-Emmons tonight.