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The Elks came into the game with a two-game winning streak that had filled them with renewed confidence.

Coach Andy Kenney's revamped lineup, putting his taller players in the game at the same time, had proven a boost to the Elks' offensive production.

But the Red Rayders had the answers for the Elks' improved play, and came up with defensive schemes that stunted Elk Rapids' attack.

Elk Rapids fell to 2-3 in the conference and faces an uphill battle to get back into the chase for the title.

It's going to be a difficult climb, with the level of competition in the league this season making every game a major challenge.

Zac Dreffs enjoyed a breakout game for the Elks with 17 points and 5 steals, while Charlie Hoch had another double figure night on the boards with 10 rebounds and was a defensive presence inside with 3 blocks, while scoring 6 points.

Nate LaBlance scored a game-high 19 points for Charlevoix, which remained undefeated in the conference. Justin Friske contributed 15 points and Weston Bryan had 10.

"Charlevoix is well coached and very deep," Kenney said. "They are good and effective at what they do, and that is to pressure you full court the entire game on defense.

"We were with them through the first half, trailing by two points. But, we came out in the third quarter very flat and turned the ball over too much."

The Elks trailed at the end of one, 14-12. It was still a two-point game, 34-32, at the half. Charlevoix extended its lead to 55-37 after three periods.

Elk Rapids ran roughshod over Lake Leelanau St. Mary for a 72-47 nonconference win last Tuesday.

After taking a 17-13 lead at the end of the first quarter, the Elks moved out to a 36-28 lead at the half. It was 58-40 going into the fourth quarter. Four players scored in double figures for the Elks, led by Sam Wittbrodt with 14 points. Wittbrodt added 6 assists.

Brandon Tully contributed 13 points and hauled down 10 rebounds.

Hoch added 12 points and Ian Sliger scored 10 points and had 4 steals.

"St. Mary was a scrappy team and ran a very aggressive offense," Kenney said. "We were able to settle down and match their intensity in the second half and slow them down on offense.

"We played an overall solid game, with an even distribution of points." The Elks are 3-5 overall and host Kalkaska on Friday night.