Fayette, Mo. - The Central Methodist men's basketball team used a 43-point second half to overcome a nine-point deficit in the first, defeating Peru State College 70-64 in the Heart Tournament Quarterfinals Wednesday night in Puckett Field House. 

With the win, the Eagles advance to the Heart Semifinals, and improve their overall record to 22-9. The Bobcats see their season come to an end with a final mark of 16-15. 

The Eagles found themselves in a nine-point hole at the halftime break, trailing the Bobcats 36-27. However, CMU's offense outscored Peru by 15 in the second to earn a narrow six-point victory. 

Four of Central's five starters reached double figures, led by Heart First Team All-Conference performer Jonathan Brown, who poured in 17 points paired with seven rebounds. Fode Camara followed with 15 points and 10 rebounds to earn a double-double. 

Tim Cameron, Isaiah May, and Thomas Sowoolu all recorded 10 points, while Cameron dished out a team-high nine assists along with six rebounds, a steal, and a block. Sophomore guard Trent Lyles nearly cracked double figures with eight points, while also adding two steals and a block. 

Central just edged Peru on the glass, grabbing 37 rebounds compared to 36 for the Bobcats. 

The Eagles are set for a rematch against No. 1 William Penn Friday, Feb. 25 at 7:30 p.m. in Oskaloosa, Iowa. CMU handed the Statesmen their only loss of the season, 79-73 back on Dec. 8 in Fayette. 

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