Results

CULLOWHEE, N.C.- WCU is off to its best start in recent history improving to 6-2 after defeating Appalachian State 5-2 on Sunday. The six victories equal the total from last year as well as 2002-03 season which was the last time for that achievement.

"I am so proud of these girls and the effort they are putting in each match. To win this match is a huge testament to their fight and belief in themselves and their teammates," said head coach Michaela Kissell-Eddins.

The Catamounts got the match started by getting the victory at No. 2 doubles with senior Megan McLinden and freshman Savannah Taranto getting the 6-2 win over Melissa Machado and Megan Mullen.

Senior Nicole Nielly and freshman Alexa Webb lost a close battle to Mackenzie LaSure and Taylor Bygrave 7-5 at No. 3.

The senior duo of Shannon Bettiol and Stacia Kissell clinched the doubles point by defeating Clare Cox and Heidi Swope 7-5 in another close contest at No. 1.

Appalachian State evened the match when Machado defeated Tarranto 6-3, 6-3 at No. 3 singles. Kissell then pushed the Purple and Gold ahead at No. 1 defeating Cox 6-2. 6-2.

No. 4 Bettiol took down Swope 6-1, 7-5 to push the lead to 3-1 and widen the lead. Sophomore Elizabeth Ansari clinched the match for WCU by defeating Rebecca Morse 6-3, 6-4.

Western Carolina got its final point of the match from senior Erin Maguire who defeated Bygrave 6-4, 6-3 at No. 6. McLinden battled LaSure 6-3, 7-5 but lost to allow the Mountaineers to get their second point.

"As always there are things we can work on for next match but overall I'm very happy with the level we are playing at," stated Kissell-Eddins. "We will celebrate this win today but need to refocus quickly and get ready for an exciting match Friday against UNCG."

The Catamounts next travel to Greensboro to open Southern Conference play against UNCG on Friday, March 4 at 2 p.m.