Behind two 20-point performances from junior Daryna Bachkarova and senior Arleighshya McElroy, the No. 11 Central Methodist women’s basketball team cruised past Midland University 96-74 in a Saturday afternoon contest in Puckett Field House.

With the win, Central improves its overall record to 8-0 while the Warriors fall to 4-4. It is the first 8-0 start for the Eagles since the 2012-13 campaign.

Central jumped out quickly in the first quarter with a 30-14 advantage. The Warriors evened the scoring in the second frame, 18-18, but CMU still maintained a 48-32 advantage heading into the locker room at halftime.

Despite the Warriors keeping pace in the final two quarters of play, Central maintained a double-digit lead through the rest of the game, going on to win by 22 points. It is Central’s sixth win by double figures this season.

Overall, Central tallied six double-digit scorers, led by Bachkarova with 24 points on 10-of-16 shooting from the field and four-of-five from beyond the arc. She also pulled down seven rebounds, dished out seven assists, and recorded a game-high six steals in the victory. The 24 points mark the junior’s third-straight 20-plus performance this season.

McElroy followed with 21 points along with four assists, three rebounds, and two blocks. She was also a perfect seven-of-seven from the charity stripe. Sophomore guard Jaicia Canady collected 13 points on five-of-seven shooting from the field. Senior guard Kedranea' Addison added 11 points off the bench with seven rebounds, six assists, and three steals.

The duo of freshman Leah Johnson and senior Daesjah Ely rounded out the double-digit scoring with 10 points each, while Johnson pulled down nine rebounds to nearly earn a double-double.

Midland just edged Central on the glass with 45 rebounds compared to CMU’s 43. Central did its damage on the defensive end of the floor, forcing 24 Warriors turnovers on 14 steals.

CMU held Midland’s potent 3-point attack to only 20-percent from beyond the arc. Central’s offense recorded 21 assists on 37 of its made field goals.

CMU’s game with Evangel scheduled  for tonight has been canceled and will not be rescheduled. CMU’s next action will be Saturday at Park at 2 p.m.