[Results]

MINNEAPOLIS, Minn. – The Bethel University men's tennis team dropped a hard fought match with the University of St. Thomas 2-7 Sunday night at the Baseline Tennis Center at the University of Minnesota. Playing without their No. 1 singles player, senior Tucker Morris due to injury, the Royals got an inspired effort from senior Reggie Ronning who was victorious playing in Morris's place. Ronning won his match 3-6, 6-3, (10-7). The Royals also picked up a victory at No. 2 doubles as Kirby Ronning and Luke Palmquist won 8-5.

“Playing without Tucker was a huge downer but the guys really responded well,” said Royals coach Drew Fernelius. “The guys were really motivated and aggressive and it was probably some of the best tennis we have played individually even though we lost 2-7. Reggie picked up an impressive win playing against a great player at No. 1 singles.”

With each player playing one spot higher in the lineup then normal, a pair of Royals singles players played very tight matches. Steve Schull at No. 2 singles lost 7-5, 6-3 and Brett Lizotte at No. 6 singles lost 7-6 (7-5), 6-1. The No. 1 doubles team of Reggie Ronning and David Leafblad fell 8-5 and Schull/Lizotte fell 8-3 at No. 3 doubles.

“Overall I was much happier with how we played compared to last weekend which is a good sign going into the last, and most important, part of the season.” Fernelius said.

The Royals are scheduled to host Macalester Friday afternoon at 4:30 p.m. and will play against St. Olaf on Saturday at the Baseline Tennis Center at 5:30 p.m.