LAS VEGAS, N.M. — Fifth-ranked Robertson ended Portales’ modest four-game win streak, beating the Rams 51-48 Tuesday in the first round of the Stu Clark Tournament

Portales coach Mark Gallegos said the third quarter was key.

“They had a huge quarter where they scored 17 points,” Gallegos said. “We were up by two coming out of the half. We changed our defense just a little bit and just couldn’t get any stops. I think the key to the game was we didn’t run any offense.”

Gallegos said his team was impatient at times, taking quick shots to try and get back into the game.

Senior Jesse Blue led the fourth-ranked Rams (4-2) with 11 points and senior Garrett Hancock added 10. Fabian Varela led Robertson (6-3) with 18 points.

“We didn’t turn the ball over from the pressure, but we didn’t make as many baskets as we should have,” Gallegos said. “We have to come out and play with a little more energy then we played tonight. We were sluggish and we didn’t play as well as we have over the last couple of weeks.”

Portales plays Atrisco Heritage Academy at 1 p.m. today in the consolation round.