The Bulldogs fell in the first round of the 31st Poplar Bluff Showdown to the host team on Wednesday.

The Purple'Dogs (5-5) trailed by double digits before a late rally pulled Fayetteville within three points, 59-56, with under two minutes left. But the Bulldogs could not totally climb out of the hole.

Collin Cooper scored 24 points to lead the Bulldogs before fouling out of the game with under a minute left. Frank Morgan added 8 and Jon Conley 7.

Fayetteville will take on Bradley Tech at 5:30 p.m. today.