The boys’ varsity basketball team couldn’t get it done on Dec. 18, losing to Southridge 56-54.

Southridge got off to a 6-0 lead, but the game remained close throughout as Lincoln buckled down and finished the first quarter leading by one point.

That would be Lincoln’s only quarter lead of the game, and the Cards trailed 3-26 at halftime. Southridge is known for its tough zone defense, but good ball movement and Lincoln’s ability to knock down three-pointers helped the Cards stay in the game. Add to that Lincoln’s quickness and trapping on defense that led to Southridge turnovers and easy fast-break baskets for the Cards.

Southridge definitely had a size advantage, with three players 6-5 and over, and coach Sean Christensen was frustrated with Lincoln’s ability to deal with the size disadvantage. “Can’t win a game like that,” he said.

It certainly didn’t help that the Cards had their tallest player out of the game. Senior Xavier Rodriguez hurt his ankle during the team’s most recent practice and sat on the bench.

Nine out of 10 players scored for Lincoln. Senior guard Bailey Hazard had a team high 13 points, and freshman Bryce Sloan had a season-high for points in a varsity contest with eight, including a key three-pointer late in the game.

Lincoln will put its 3-3 record on the line against Franklin Jan. 6 at 7:30 p.m. in the Cardinal Coliseum.