Turnovers down the stretch cost the Shenango Wildcats in a 64-52 Section 2-AA loss on the road at New Brighton.

Shenango (1-9, 4-16) trailed just 27-23 at the half and 41-36 after three quarters before the Lions (8-2, 11-7) put the game out of reach in the final minutes.

“We turned the ball over when we couldn’t afford to in the fourth quarter,” Wildcats coach Bob McQuiston said. “We had 18 turnovers for the game and that’s just too many against a veteran team like New Brighton.

“They were aggressive and they used their quickness to their advantage,” he added. “We’re right in games, but we’re just making some mistakes that add up when it’s close. But that is part of the growing process for a young team.”

McQuiston has just one letterman — senior Joe Colavecchia — and plays three sophomores — Brett Chieze, Jeff Williams and Jordan O’Hara, so things look bright for the future.

“Some teams get down when they’re not winning a lot and start pointing fingers, but these kids have stayed upbeat,” he said. “I’m proud of my seniors for the leadership they’ve shown.

“Despite the losses, they’ve made it fun to coach. They’re just a great group of kids.”

Chieze led the way with 16 points, while Colavecchia and Williams added 12 apiece.