Final Stats

CULLOWHEE, N.C. =The Western Carolina women’s tennis team battled Furman but was only able to garner one point Wednesday in Cullowhee.

"It's never a good feeling to lose a match, but I was really proud of our effort today despite the loss,” said assistant coach Jacob Eddins. “Doubles was much improved and it was a battle on every court.”

The Paladins swept the Catamounts in doubles to gain that point to get off to a strong start.

”Savannah really stepped up today to get the match level at 1-1 but Furman was to tough on the other courts,” stated Eddins. “I feel we are getting back to our level and playing all around good tennis.”

Freshman Savannah Taranto evened the match at 1-1 with her 7-5, 6-3 victory over Karlee Bryde at No. 4 singles.

Senior Shannon Bettiol battled Blair Martin but lost in three set 6-1, 4-6, 6-2 at No. 3.

No. 5 singles saw sophomore Elizabeth Ansari fall in three set tiebreak 6-4, 4-6, 10-5 to Gabby Rodriguez.

”We are excited about our opportunity to play Mercer at home on Saturday, and know it's going to take our best effort if we want to come away with the win," said Eddins.

WCU will next be in action on Saturday, April 9 at 1 p.m. at the Catamount Athletic Complex in Cullowhee, N.C. against Southern Conference member Mercer.