Chanute, Kansas - The Neosho Panther men's basketball team began the afternoon tied with Cowley for second place in the Jayhawk East but the afternoon didn't go as planned for the home team Panthers. Neosho kept it close most of the way, but the Tigers managed to pull away late for the win to keep themselves in second place in the Jayhawk East.

The Panthers entered the game having won three consecutive games, including two wins on the road in a loaded Jayhawk East. The Panthers took a quick lead out of the gate, but Cowley would gather themselves and were able to get back in the game behind strong three-point shooting, including three triples from Julius Nwosu in the first half. But it was Magic Reliford last second shot just before the buzzer that helped the Panthers cling to a 33-32 lead going into the locker room at half.

"I thought they were tougher then us in several key areas of the game." Head Coach Jeremy Coombs said. "Honestly I'm not sure how we had the lead at half because it felt like we were down ten points."

The second half was much like the first as the Panthers would strike first. Jay McMiller would lead the Panthers with 16 points, Jack Taliaferro scored 14 points while Magic Reliford scored 10 points. But the Tigers would make a late run and put the Panthers away for good.

"No doubt it was a rough offensive night for us." Coombs said. "I think Cowley did a great job defending us and attacking the paint."

Neosho shot a disastrous 40% (27-66) from the field to Cowley's 61% (28-46). The Panthers didn't help matters shooting 46% (6-13) from the free throw line to Cowley's 76% (16-21).

"We can't let teams come into our house and allow them to be the more aggressive team." Coombs said "They made more free throws then we shot, so that right there tells you what kind of game we played."

The Panthers will now hit the road Wednesday night to take on the Butler Grizzlies in El Dorado Kansas. Last time the Panthers and Grizzlies met the Panthers came out on top 70-62.

"Butler is a very talented team and can do a little bit of everything." Coombs said "Plus the fact that we're on the road will make it even tougher."

Panthers will return home Saturday February 16th for their final home regular season game as they host the #3 NJCAA Coffeyville Red Ravens for a 7:30pm tip.

For more information on the Panther men's basketball team, visit GoNeosho.com or follow @GoNeoshoHoops on Twitter.