By The Hays Daily News

TAHLEQUAH, Okla. - The Fort Hays State University women's basketball team, ranked No. 10 in NCAA Division II and previously undefeated, suffered its first loss of the season Thursday night.

The Tigers struggled offensively all game and lost 54-44 to Northeastern (Okla.) State University, a perennial NCAA tournament participant and an MIAA newcomer this season. FHSU dropped to 10-1, 2-1 MIAA, while Northeastern State moved to 7-4, 2-1. The loss ended the best start in Tiger women's basketball history. Fort Hays shot just 29 percent from the field, 14 percent from the 3-point line and 47 percent from the free throw line.

Junior Katelyn Edwards had 12 points and 10 rebounds to lead the Tigers, but finished 4 of 13 from the field.

Sophomore center Kate Lehman collected seven points and six rebounds and was 3 of 7 from the field and 1 of 5 from the free throw line. Fort Hays shot just 3 of 21 from the 3-point line.

Tosha Tyler scored 19 points and Taylor Lewis had 17 to lead the Riverhawks.

The two combined for 6 of 15 from beyond the arc.

Fort Hays trailed just 18-17 at halftime, but trailed 37-26 with 8 minutes, 53 seconds left in the contest. Fort Hays went on an 8-0 run and cut it to 37-34 with 5:41 left, but then Northeastern quickly reopened the lead.

The Tigers will travel to Emporia State University on Saturday. ESU opened the year in the national rankings and Tiger coach Tony Hobson has never defeated the Hornets in his five seasons with FHSU.