PORTALES, N.M. – ENMU fell to Central Washington in a conference match, 45-17, at Greyhound Stadium.

Thousands of Greyhound alumni, friends, and supporters celebrated the annual Homecoming week by cheering on the Hounds against the Wildcats.

Over the first 22 minutes, CWU stretched out to a 28-0 lead. After that, the game took a different turn as both programs traded possessions and scoring opportunities.

Three minutes before halftime, ENMU lessened the deficit to 28-10 after a Mario Sanchez to Bryzai White touchdown grab. Cooper Hamilton added a 47-yard field goal in the closing seconds after Lino Odenat recorded an impressive interception and returned it 40 yards to put Eastern in a good position to drive in the final seconds.

Sophomore Howard Russell had the Hounds longest play of the season as he opened a drive with a 75-yard touchdown run in the fourth quarter.

"Tonight, was a great environment with the Homecoming crowd," said head coach Tye Hiatt. "Unfortunately, we made too many mistakes in all three phases and we were inconsistent with our execution. We have to stay the course and keep working to improve each day."

ENMU had its best rushing game of the season with 237 yards on the ground on 46 carries. The Hounds had three players with 60+ yards on the ground (Mario Sanchez, Isaiah Tate, and Howard Russell).

Justin Benvie record a sack and four tackles for Eastern and his teammate Cameron Santa Cruz posted a team-high five tackles.

The Hounds head to #3 Angelo State next week. The game can be viewed on the Lone Star Conference Network.