READING, Pa. – The Bryn Mawr tennis program traveled to Albright College earlier Wednesday afternoon to compete in their final non-conference match before the start of conference play. The Lions led 2-1 going in to doubles, but it was first-year
Macey Ellis who was the determining match of the day at six singles. Bryn Mawr clinched the win 5-4 to extend their win streak to five for the year and three for the spring season.
The Owls hoped to take an early lead with at least two wins at doubles, but the Lions were a tough match-up and Bryn Mawr only managed a win at second doubles thanks to
Fernanda Hurtado and
Kelly Cole (8-5). Ellis and fellow first-year Gianna Zhao had a tight match at third singles, but lost in the tie break (8-7, 7-2).
Entering singles, it was crucial that the Owls step up to the plate. Eng (6-0, 6-1) at fourth singles was the first to successfully step off the court, followed by Hurtado at third singles (6-1, 6-0). Their win gave Bryn Mawr a 3-2 lead.
Next to shake hands at the net were Cole at second singles and Zhao at fifth singles. Cole, who typically plays a consistent game, could not match her opponent's power, and ultimately lost (6-0, 6-0). However, Zhao competing in her first singles match of the season, won her first set 6-4 and finished off with a seamless second set at 6-0.
Leading 4-3, it was up to either Bryant or Ellis to bring home the win. All eyes looked to Bryant at first singles as she had lost the first set and appeared to be losing control of the second set as well. Unfortunately, within moments she lost in straight sets (6-4, 6-4). Tied at 4-4, it would be the winner of sixth singles who determined the final score. Up a set after winning the first in a tiebreak, the Owl breathed a sigh of relief. However, her job was not quite done. Ellis maintained her composure and refused to allow her nerves to overtake her game. With her teammates cheering, Ellis won the second set 6-3 to give Bryn Mawr a 5-4 victory.
The Owls will return to action on Saturday against Washington College for their first conference match of the season.
