Lawrence, Kan. – The Central Methodist Women's Basketball team picked up a 68-67 win over Haskell in Lawrence, Kansas Saturday evening.

Central Methodist edged Haskell in a tightly contested matchup, securing a one-point victory after four competitive quarters of play.

The Eagles matched Haskell point-for-point in the opening frame, with both teams ending the first tied at 18-18. Central began to create some separation in the second quarter, outscoring Haskell 16-13 to take a slim 34-31 lead into halftime.

Haskell responded with a strong showing in the third quarter, putting up 22 points and swinging the momentum in their favor. Central managed 14 in the frame, and the Eagles found themselves trailing 53-48 heading into the final 10 minutes.

The Eagles refused to back down and turned in a clutch performance in the fourth. Still trailing late, CMU took the lead for good after back-to-back three-pointers from Tayla Robinson and Trishelle Porter, securing the one-point victory.

Junior guard Kaelyn Johnson led the Eagles offensively with 17 points and four rebounds. Robinson added 13 points, seven rebounds, and four assists, providing a balanced performance on both ends of the floor.

Kaitlyn Patke rounded out Central's double-digit scorers with 11 points, while adding a team-leading five assists. 

Asnate Gerke made a significant impact defensively, finishing with four defensive rebounds and four steals.

Despite Haskell outshooting CMU, 42.1 percent to 36.4 percent, Central's defense forced 22 turnovers on 10 steals. 

Central Methodist remains on the road next week and will face Clarke on Saturday, December 13 at 12:00 p.m. in Dubuque, Iowa. 

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