Box Score MONTGOMERY, Ala. - The No. 19 University of West Alabama men's tennis team fell to Alabama State University in a 6-1 decision Wednesday afternoon from the Olean Black Underwood Tennis Center.
The Hornets played spoiler for the Tigers' opening match of the spring season, moving to 1-3 on the season at the visitor's expense.
"The men played with a lot of energy today to open up in doubles. We feel like this match was a big part of how we will prepare for Columbus State this weekend." said head coach
Jeff Beaman.
The Tigers came out rolling to start doubles play, as the
Lucas Hammond and
Wilson Igbinovia, the twentieth ranked doubles duo in Division II men's tennis, got the 6-4 victory at the top flight.
Nuutti Jokinen and freshman
Federico Iturbe gave UWA the doubles point with a 7-5 decision at the No. 3.
Despite the doubles success, Alabama State took the crown in singles play, dropping all six of the Tigers' solo competitors.
Hammond took Jeanne Grandinot to three sets in the first outing, but couldn't get over the top against the Hornets' junior.
West Alabama will keep the roads hot as they head to Columbus, Georgia to take on the sixth-ranked Cougars of Columbus State in a top 20 showdown. First serve is set for 2 p.m. EST.
