FAYETTE, Mo. (Interstat) — Two men’s NAIA teams hovering around .500 will meet Saturday when the Peru State Bobcats visit the Central Methodist Eagles at Puckett Field House.

The Bobcats (10-7) enter on a three-game winning streak, most recently a 76-68 road victory at Missouri Baptist on Jan. 10. The Eagles (10-8) have dropped three of their last four, including a 67-59 loss at Missouri Baptist on Wednesday.

Peru State’s surge has been fueled by guard Denim Johnson. Over the last three games, he is averaging 14.7 points, 3.7 rebounds and 2.3 assists per contest. He scored 21 points in the win at Missouri Baptist, where Christian Tidiane added 12 points and eight rebounds and Victor Lado contributed 17 points and six boards.

Central Methodist will counter with forward Austin Prater, who has been a consistent force on the glass. He grabbed 13 rebounds in the midweek loss and is averaging 11.3 rebounds over his last three appearances.

The Eagles won the first meeting this season, 102-99 in overtime, at home against William Penn (Iowa) on Nov. 19. The Bobcats also beat William Penn, 88-84, on Jan. 3.

Saturday’s contest is the first of a regular-season series split between the campuses. The teams will meet again in Peru, Neb., on Feb. 21.

Following this game, Peru State hosts MidAmerica Nazarene on Jan. 21. Central Methodist remains at home to face Baker on Jan. 21.