Newtown High School’s girls’ basketball team defeated visiting Stratford 58-30, and the boys’ team lost 49-47 at Stratford, in overtime, on January 24.

This was the first loss in 12 games to begin the season for the Nighthawks. Stratford improved to 8-5 overall. Both teams are 5-1 in South-West Conference play.

“We fought all night — came up short,” said Newtown Coach Tim Tallcouch, adding that the defense was solid.

Tallcouch added that the Nighthawks have shot 61 percent from 2-point field goal range all year long, but made just 12-of-34 from 2-point land, in addition to a solid 6-for-17 from 3-point territory.

“Had plenty of chances. They just didn’t fall,” the coach added.

Todd Petersen led Newtown with 15 points and 11 rebounds; Tucker Garrity scored 11 points and grabbed 14 rebounds; Jack Petersen had 11 points; and Riley Ward dropped in ten.

On the girls’ hardwood, the Nighthawks improved to 12-2 overall and 7-1 in conference play; Stratford fell to 4-9 (1-7).

A dozen Nighthawk girls got on the scoresheet, led by 13 from Cailin Wilson and ten from Nicki DaPra.

Newtown held its opponent to 30 points for the fourth time this season. In two other games, the Hawks held the opposition to 29 and 31 points.

The boys visit Immaculate of Danbury on Monday, January 28, beginning at 7 pm. Immaculate is 9-1 overall and 6-0 in conference play heading into a Saturday, January 26 visit to St. Bernard in Montville.

The girls, after visiting Carmel, N. Y. on Saturday, January 26 at 5 pm, host Immaculate on Monday, December 28, beginning at 7 pm. The Immaculate girls are 3-11 (1-7).