CEDAR FALLS, Iowa - Despite a battle by Ashley Rettger at No. 1 singles, Western Illinois women's tennis fell 7-0 to the Panthers of Northern Iowa Saturday (Feb. 18) afternoon. The Leathernecks drop to 0-4 on the year.
"We played another very good tea today in Northern Iowa and they deserved to win," head coach Chris Kane said. "I thought we had an improved level of play from Jessica Callahan and Juliette Schwartz, even though the scores may not indicate so. Ashley Rettger put up and excellent battle against an outstanding player from Germany at No. 1 singles."
Rettger made a valient effort at No. 1 singles for Western Illinois but ultimately fell (6-1, 6-2) to Nina Pfahler. At No. 2 singles, Callahan dropped her match (6-0, 6-0) and Megan Pazdernick was unable to score at No. 3 singles falling (6-0, 6-0). Jessica Theobald and Schwartz were also bested (6-0, 6-0) at No. 4 and No. 5 singles, respectively.
In doubles competition, No. 1 duo of Rettger and Callahan as well as No. 2 pair of Pazdernick and Theobald dropped 8-0 decisions to Northern Iowa.
The Panthers took No. 6 singles and No. 3 doubles by forfeit.
"Our attitude is good," Kane added. "We want to get better. If we can reduce our unforced errors, the results will come."
The Leathernecks are back on the court on Saturday (Feb. 25) against Valparaiso. The match is set to begin at 10 a.m.
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