Lions’ Singles Comeback Attempt Falls Just Short
Columbus, Ga. – In a battle of nationally ranked teams, the No. 26-ranked Saint Leo women’s tennis team (3-3) nearly overcame a 2-1 doubles deficit in facing the No.11-ranked Columbus State Cougars.  But it was it was not to be as the Cougars kept the Lions at bay during the latter portions, edging the Green & Gold, 5-3.

The Lions found themselves as the recipient of one point in doubles action, before taking a pair of singles matches in the narrow defeat.

Each of the three doubles matches saw a final score of 8-3, with the Cougars laying claim to the first two wins. The first point came at the No. 2 spot as the team of Tracy Castillo and Olivera Jokic toppled Selma Hidass and Caroline Ebner. Saint Leo then saw the No.3 pair fall by the identical score as Jeanette McDonald and Adrianna Daszkiewicz were downed by Andrea Redrado and Renata Paiva.

The Lions did take the win from the top doubles tandem of the Cougars as Bethania Laan and Laura Kemkes dusted Loriane Favoretto and Olivera Jokic.

Moving into singles action, Saint Leo posted the first and last wins of the match. Kemkes held off Madeline Johnson, 6-4, 6-4 at No. 3 singles, but before the Lions could see if they could force a rally, Favoretto clinched the match for Columbus State upending McDonald, 6-4, 6-0.

The Lions did secure their third point of the afternoon, however, as Daszkiewicz disposed of Jokic in straight sets, 6-3, 6-2.

Head Coach James Bryce was thrilled with his girl’s efforts against a nationally ranked opponent, “We really held our own today against one of the best teams in the country. We proved we could win some close matches against elite level competition, now it’s all about having it all come together. After seeing today’s demonstration, I am looking forward to facing Tuskegee tomorrow.” 

Tomorrow, February 26, the Lions will continue their road trip as they head to Tuskegee College for the second of their three regional contests.