Box Score 1 |
Box Score 2 ATHERTON, Calif. – Fresno Pacific tennis saw strong performances on both the women's and men's sides Saturday afternoon, as the Sunbirds claimed a 4–3 victory in women's play while the men battled in a tight 4–3 loss against Menlo College.
The FPU women opened the day with a commanding effort in doubles, sweeping the point to take early control. The No. 1 duo of
Fabiana Gonzalez and
Yume Ueoku rolled to a 6–1 win, while
Halle Faherty and
Jessica McLean followed with a dominant 6–0 victory at the number two spot in doubles. Carrying that momentum into singles play, the 'Birds secured three key wins to clinch the match.
Yume Ueoku was sharp at the No. 2 spot with a 6–3, 6–2 victory, and
Halle Faherty delivered a great performance of the day with a 6–3, 6–0 win as No. 3. freshman
Fabiana Gonzalez, ranked No. 20 nationally, battled through a three-set contest at the top position to earn the fourth and deciding point for Fresno Pacific.
"This was a great road win in a tough environment for us," said head coach
Sam Gaeddert. "Menlo played well, especially in singles. I'm proud of how we kept our composure throughout the match. Our juniors Yume and Halle both had decisive singles wins, and Fabi was composed and mature as she clinched for us at one. I also thought our #1 and #2 doubles teams looked unstoppable today. We're looking forward to hosting Stan State this coming Saturday, Feb 14 for our conference home opener! Come out on Valentine's Day at 2 pm to support your Lady 'Birds."
The Sunbird men also delivered a competitive performance, winning the doubles point before falling in a narrow 4–3 decision. The 'Birds claimed two doubles victories, as
Emilio Seelbach and
Jordi Gonzalez earned a 6–4 win at number two, and
Felix Devallius and
Tim Bangert earned a 6–2 victory at No. 3 to give FPU the early edge. In singles play, the Sunbirds added two more points. Key returner Angel España earned a straight-set 6–4, 6–4 victory at number 3, while regionally-ranked freshman
Jordi Gonzalez dominated at No. 4 with a 6–1, 6–1 performance. Several other matches extended deep into competitive sets, highlighting the team's fight throughout the lineup.
"I'm really happy with the level of effort our guys brought to their matches. It was a tough environment and they played with discipline and composure. I think there are several things we can clean up in singles, but overall I'm encouraged by the effort and drive of our young team. We're an exciting team to watch and we will only get better with time."
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