CASTLETON, Vt. – The Vermont State University Castleton men's basketball team dropped an eight-point decision to Fitchburg State in a high intensity non-conference matchup on Saturday afternoon, 65-57.

The opening half was incredibly competitive, seeing the score tied six times before coming to an end knotted at 29-all. In his first contest as a Spartan, Troy Butler was strong in the opening 20 minutes with eight points and two steals.

Fitchburg would outscore VTSU Castleton 13-8 in the first five minutes of the second to slowly establish itself as the front-runner (40-36).

The Falcons would grow their lead to as much as 12-points in the closing 10 minutes, but the Spartans were able to cut down the separation to keep themselves within striking distance.

VTSU Castleton outscored the visitors 7-5 in the closing stages, but ultimately succumbed to the pressure, falling 65-57.

It was Butler, the newcomer, that led the green and white offensively with his 19 points, as he went 7-for-10 from the charity stripe and 6-for-28 from the field. He also added two steals, one assist and one rebound in the process.

Also reaching double-digit scoring was Justin Schwarzbeck with his 11 points, which he paired with eight rebounds, three assists, one steal and one block.

Will Radcliff led his team defensively with his team-best 13 rebounds and three steals. Radcliff contributed four assists and five points as well.

Coming off the bench with energy was Conner McKearin who put up seven points, grabbed five boards and recorded three steals.

VTSU Castleton hits the road on Wednesday as it returns to Little East Conference play in a 6 p.m. contest at Keene State.