Columbia, Mo. - The Columbia College Cougar basketball team suffered their second loss of the season tonight after falling to No. 25 Central Methodist University 93-79. The Cougars, ranked No. 20 in the NAIA Preseason Poll, drop to 4-2 with the loss while Central Methodist improves to 4-0 on the season.

Central Methodist, who entered tonight's contest ranked No.1 nationally in scoring defense and No. 2 in scoring offense, led by as many as 13 in the opening period. The Cougars trailed 37-32 at the halftime break after shooting 40 percent (12 of 13) from the field in the opening period. Central Methodist shot 42 percent from the field and 9 of 14 (64 percent) from three-point range in the first 20 minutes. Ashley Fisher had ten points to lead Columbia at the break. The Eagles continued to control the game and led by double digits throughout the second half on their way to victory.

The Cougars finished the game at 41 percent (30 for 74) from the field, while CMU shot 61 percent. The outcome was largely decided behind the arc as Central Methodist hit 13 of 21 (62 percent) attempts from three-point range and solidified by going 26 of 33 (79 percent) at the free throw line. Columbia was whistled for 25 fouls on the night, while the Eagles finished with 18.

Fisher led the Cougars with 23 points and seven rebounds followed by Corri Hamilton and Aqua Corpening with 20 apiece. CMU had four players in double figures for the game, led by Kyra Williams and Taylor McDowell with 27 points apiece.

Columbia will hit the road on Thursday, December 4^th for a conference matchup with Lyon College. Thursday's contest is set for a 5:30 pm start in Batesville, Ark.