WILMORE, Ky. -- Asbury's second half comeback fell short against Johnson University, as the Eagles lost the non-conference matchup 77-71. Asbury is now 5-5 as they head into conference play next week. The Eagles had defeated Johnson in Knoxville just over a week ago by a score of 105-88.  
 
Johnson came out strong and established their offense with a 12-3 run in the first seven and a half minutes of play.

The Royals extended their lead to 25-10, with the Eagles only making 14 percent of their shots from the floor up to that point. Johnson took an astounding 42-19 lead at halftime. In the opening frame, the Eagles were only good for 18 percent of their field goal attempts, and only nine percent from three.
 
The Eagles went on a 16-3 run to start the second half to work down the deficit, but couldn't overcome the large lead. The Eagles managed to reduce the advantage down to just four at 59-55, but failed to get any closer. AU's rally was nearly successful, out-scoring the Royals 52-35 in the second half, but Johnson prevailed with several key baskets down the stretch in the final minutes to keep the lead. 
 
Eric Powell led the Eagles in scoring with 20 points and nine rebounds. Siah Holifield had nine points and three rebounds, and led the team in rebounds with seven.
 
Desmond Duke recorded 10 points with two rebounds and four assists. Leander Ridgeway also scored double-digit points with 10, while also getting four rebounds and three assists.
 
Freshman Nick Martin also scored in double figures, with a season-high 10 points. 

Blaine May notched seven points and  Caleb Bonny scored three points. 
 
Asbury will stay at home as they take on IU Kokomo at 7:30 on Tuesday, November 26.