Box ScoreDespite wrestling with several injuries on the team, Bethel's men's tennis squad was able to overcome its initial challenges and overpower its opponent Friday night. The Royals 8-1 victory over Hamline University at the University of Minnesota's Baseline Tennis Center improves BU to 3-1 on the season and 2-1 in MIAC play.
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"Our guys did a great job of striking early," said head tennis coach
Drew Fernelius. "We got ahead 3-0 after doubles play, which really made a big difference down the stretch."
"Playing with a 3-0 advantage is huge," added Fernelius. "We felt like that gave us great momentum going into singles play and made life a lot easier."
Matt Schull and
Kolin Kiekhoefer both made quick work of their opponent at No. 1 and No. 2 singles, as each defeated their competitor 6-0, 6-2. That would prove to be highly influential because at that point Bethel had already secured the win with a 5-0 score.
Because of some injuries singles players 3-6 all had to move up for Bethel and as a result had rather close matches. In fact, the Royals lost the first set at No. 3, No. 4, and No. 5 singles, but each one was able to come back and win their match. Since Schull and Kiekhoefer had already secured the win, Fernelius notes that others could play without pressure and stress.
"Once we had guaranteed ourselves the win, that completely shifted our approach in singles matches three through five," said Fernelius. "At that point, those guys came back and won thanks to some gutsy performances."
With the win, Bethel improves to 3-1 on the season and will now travel to St. Peter on February 28 to face Gustavus Adolphus. The Royals will then take on Carleton at the Lakeville Lifetime Fitness on March 6, before heading to Orlando, Florida for their annual spring break trip.
