CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo. (Interstat) — The Southeast Missouri State Redhawks look to build momentum in Ohio Valley Conference play when they host the struggling Western Illinois Leathernecks on Saturday at the Show Me Center.

The Redhawks (6-7) enter the matchup on a high note after a 91-82 road victory over Tennessee State on Dec. 20, their third win in four games. Marqueas Bell led the way in that contest, scoring 22 points, and has been a key offensive catalyst. He is averaging 17.5 points over his last two games.

Western Illinois (4-10) seeks to end a three-game skid, most recently a 67-60 loss at Tennessee-Martin on Thursday. Despite the defeat, guard Lucas Lorenzen continued his strong play, scoring 23 points. Lorenzen has been a consistent bright spot, averaging 20.2 points over his last five contests. Isaiah Griffin, who added 21 points against UT Martin, provides a secondary scoring threat.

The Leathernecks have struggled defensively during their losing streak, allowing an average of 81.7 points per game. Containing Bell and a balanced Southeast Missouri attack, which saw Luke Almodovar score 19 and BJ Ward add 14 in the win over Tennessee State, will be a primary challenge.

Southeast Missouri State holds a slight edge in the early season record and will play its first game since Dec. 20, while Western Illinois plays its second contest in three days. The Redhawks are 4-1 at home this season, while the Leathernecks are 1-7 on the road.

This game marks the conference opener for both teams. The teams will meet again in Macomb, Illinois, on Jan. 29.

Tipoff is scheduled for Saturday afternoon.