Women's Tennis 2/5/2018 12:57:00 PM

BELMONT HOLDS ON TO TOP UNA WOMEN’S TENNIS

NASHVILLE – A comeback attempt against Belmont fell one point short for the University of North Alabama women's tennis team over the weekend. After trailing 2-0 and 3-1 in the season-opener, the Lions rallied to tie the score at 3-3 before dropping the final singles match of the day at the Ensworth Tennis Center indoor facility in Nashville.

"We looked nervous and I guess that is to be expected with this being our first match," said UNA head tennis coach Brice Bishop. "I am proud of the way we battled back."

The Bruins grabbed the early momentum by sweeping doubles play to earn the doubles point. Belmont posted 6-2, 6-1 and 6-3 victories to take an early 1-0 lead.

A win at No. 3 singles increased the Belmont lead to 2-0 before UNA got its first points of the season. Junior Claire DeGeorge posted a convincing 6-2, 6-2 win at No. 6 singles to get the Lions on the board.

After the Bruins increased the lead to 3-1 with a win at No. 5 singles, Nele Seitz gave momentum back to UNA with a tight win at the No. 4 spot. The 6-4, 7-5 victory by the junior closed the Belmont lead to 3-2.

"Claire had a great fall and we needed her to continue to play at a high level and she did not disappoint," said Bishop. "We needed that. Nele also played tough in the tough moments. This was a great way to start her season."

With two matches still being played, the Lions needed both wins to complete the comeback. Sophomore Nina Linke was in complete control or her match at No. 2 singles while Junior Claudia Arroyo was in the third set at the top spot.

After Linke was able to finish off her opponent 7-6, 6-1, the Bruins clinched the match with a third-set victory at No. 1 singles.

"Nina did what Nina always does," added Bishop. "She makes the match so physical and gave us a chance. You have to give Belmont credit. They are very good."

The Lions are scheduled to be back in action on Wednesday, February 7, against Martin Methodist. Match time is set for 1 p.m. at Cox Creek Park.

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Players Mentioned

Claudia Arroyo: 5' 7"; Junior

Claire DeGeorge: 5' 3"; Junior

Nina Linke: 5' 8"; Sophomore

Nele Seitz: 5' 7"; Junior

Players Mentioned

Claudia Arroyo
: 5' 7"; Junior

Claire DeGeorge
: 5' 3"; Junior

Nina Linke
: 5' 8"; Sophomore

Nele Seitz
: 5' 7"; Junior