CARLISLE — The Fort Dodge boys basketball team upped their defensive intensity to earn their first victory of the season at Carlisle on Tuesday, 44-38.

The Dodgers (1-3 overall) pulled away late to finally shake free from the Wildcats (1-4), a rare Class 3A opponent for head coach Tom Daniel’s squad. Junior Carson Peterson scored 15 points to pace FDSH.

“I thought turning defense into offense was the key,” Daniel said. “We still have a lot to figure out and some things to work through, but it was good to see a more productive commitment on the defensive end.

“This was a step in the right direction, and the type of Dodger basketball that needs to be played.”

Fort Dodge jumped ahead 10-5 at the end of the first quarter, and extended the lead to six by halftime. Carlisle made a run midway through the final period and got within a point, but the Dodgers closed the door late.

Senior Averey Martin added nine points in the win, and junior Drake Callon chipped in eight.

Fort Dodge is back on action against Ames at home on Tuesday, Jan. 5.

FORT DODGE 44, CARLISLE 38

Fort Dodge — Jon Astor 4, Triston Bockoven 2, Carson Peterson 15, Drake Callon 8, Javion Jondle 6, Averey Martin 9.

Carlisle — Cole Osterhaus 6, Jacob Imhoff 2, Carter Prenosil 2, Karson Dunn 2, Cejay Whisler 11, Ryan Petersen 11, Max Mitchell 4.

Quarter scores: Fort Dodge led 10-5, 19-13, 29-24.