The Central Methodist women’s basketball team was unable to overcome Clarke’s strong all-around performance, falling 87-64 in Heart action on Saturday afternoon in Dubuque, Iowa.

The Eagles remain above .500 at 7-5 overall and even their record in the conference at 3-3. The Pride improve to 5-6 overall and 2-4 in the Heart of America.

CMU opened the game shooting an efficient 60 percent from the field in the first quarter, along with five 3-point baskets. However, Clarke harnessed a late first-quarter surge to take a 26-19 lead.

The Pride extended the advantage heading into halftime, and despite competitive stretches from the Eagles in the third and fourth quarters, Clarke maintained control throughout.

Trishelle Porter led the Eagles with 15 points off the bench, connecting on four 3-pointers. Maizen Williams also scored 15 points, sinking six of 13 from the field and adding three free throws.

Alina Riley finished with 12 points, all coming from beyond the arc, while Tayla Robinson contributed nine points, five rebounds, and three assists. Kaitlyn Patke added six points and a team-high nine rebounds.

The Eagles shot 38.6 percent from the field and 41.7 percent from 3-point range, while getting strong production from the bench with 34 points.

Central Methodist totaled 35 rebounds and 12 assists but was challenged by Clarke’s pressure, committing 22 turnovers.

Up next, CMU will head south to take part in the Daytona Beach Shoot Out. The first game is at 10 a.m. today (Wednesday) against Kansas Wesleyan.