The Teutopolis Wooden Shoes turned in their strongest performance of the season Tuesday night, handing the Monticello Sages their first loss, a 54-51 setback at J.H. Griffin Gymnasium.

The Sages led by one, 17-16, after the opening eight minutes, but the Shoes came back to outscore their guests 15-7 to take a 31-24 lead at halftime. Monticello then went on a 21-11 run in the third quarter and carried a 45-42 edge into the final period. But the Shoes outscored the Sages 12-6 in the final eight minutes to come away with the win.

Ben Cresap led the Sages with 19 points. They are now 13-1 on the season.

Caleb Siemer turned in another strong performance, scoring 14 points and pulling down nine rebounds. Brendan Niebrugge and James Niebrugge added nine points apiece, while Mitch Althoff had six rebounds.

The Shoes improved to 12-3 on the season. They will be back in action Saturday, traveling to Warrensburg-Latham.