Murray, Ky. - Four Cougars scored in double-figures, but Southern Illinois University Edwardsville fell to Murray State 75-67 on Saturday Night.
         SIUE's record drops to 1-2. The Cougars next play Robert Morris on Tuesday.
         Joel Jaye and Justin Ward each had 16 points to lead the way for SIUE. Jaye was seven of eight from the field in the contest. For the second straight game Ward tied a career-high netting four three-pointers. Tim Bauersachs notched 14 points and nine boards for SIUE. Doug Taylor came off the bench to tally 10 points going four of four from the field in 14 mintues of playing time.
         SIUE trailed at halftime 39-32, and the Racers extended their lead to 10 points in the second half. The Cougars would cut the lead to 58-57 with 8:24 to go, only to have Murray State jump back to a nine point lead with 6:03 to go. The Cougars would cut it to 68-65 with 1:59 left. The Racers then outscored SIUE 9-2 to end the game.
         Trey Pearson led the way for the Racers with 26 points including 13 of 13 from the free throw line. The Cougars were 15-26 from the charity stripe, while Murray State hit 22-33 at the free throw line.
         SIUE will be back in action at the Vadalabene Center on Tuesday night against Robert Morris at 7:30 p.m. The Cougars will open up Great Lakes Valley Conference action on Friday at home versus Lewis.
                  -siue cougars-