The Kent State women’s basketball team looks to chip away at the western half of the Mid-American Conference when it plays Central Michigan at 2 p.m. tomorrow at home.

The Flashes (11-6, 4-2 MAC) lead the all-time matchup, 26-19, however, the Chippewas (10-7, 1-5 MAC ) handed the Flashes one of their eight regular-season losses last season, 58-52.ÿÿ

But Kent State is not dwelling on what happened in the past.

“We are focusing on what Central Michigan has done this year,” Kent State coach Bob Lindsay said. “And we are going to play to those strengths and weaknesses.”

The Flashes will try to avoid digging themselves into a double-digit deficit in the first half, which they have been battling against for most of this season. Trailing early was also factor in last season’s matchup with the Chippewas. The Flashes were down by as many as 14 points in the first half.

Kent State comes into this game 0-1 against the MAC West, with its 65- 55 loss to Eastern Michigan on Wednesday. With the win, the Eagles (12-5, 6-0 MAC) are still undefeated in MAC play. MAC East player of the Week Lindsay Shearer led the Flashes with 22 points and five rebounds.

This is the second time this season Shearer has received the honor.

Kent State is currently No. 2 in the MAC East, behind Bowling Green, which just increased its lead as the head of the conference with its win against Central Michigan.

The Chippewas join the Flashes in their pursuit to win their first cross-conference game of the season. Central Michigan suffered a defeat of its own Wednesday night, losing 57-52 to Bowling Green. Like the Eagles, the Falcons (15-2, 6-0 MAC) are undefeated in the MAC. The loss leaves the Chippewas No. 6 in MAC West standings.

Kent State is not taking Central Michigan’s rank lightly, however.

Lindsay mentioned that Central Michigan has a few returning starters including senior guard Casey Manning. She averaged 10.7 points last season, and had 60 assists, both of which were the team’s high.

“They are a well balanced team,” Lindsay said. “You have to play smart defensively against them. They play hard, and they are very physical. We have to respond to that.”

Contact women’s basketball reporter Deanna Stevens at [email protected].