The Alva boys’ game at Newkirk Tuesday night was very different from the girls’ matchup. The Goldbugs entered the game with a 7-5 record to Newkirk’s 4-8 on the season.

After a low-scoring first quarter, the Goldbugs pulled ahead to lead 16-6 at the half and won the game 38-17. The Alva team had trouble hitting the basket, but their defense held strong and kept the Tigers at bay.

At halftime, Austin Reed led the Alva scoring with seven points, but that’s all he would score in the game. Braden Hofen had four, Jackson Feely three and Kyler Penco two.

Hofen had a great second half and led the Goldbugs with 14 points at the end of the game. Feely had nine, Reed seven and Penco six. Chuck Shelite scored two points. Feely had nine rebounds for the night while Reed and Hofen had five boards each. Alva did well from the free throw line, making 12 of 16 attempts.

The Tigers spread their scoring around. Johnston and Cole each had four points while Waters had three. Harrelson, Woods and Shirley had two each.

With their third straight win, the Goldbugs move to 8-5 for the season while Newkirk dropped to 4-9.

The Goldbugs headed to the Pawhuska Tournament on Thursday for a 3 p.m. tipoff.