MACOMB,Ill.- The Western Illinois University women's tennis team battled Saint Louis University at home, coming up just short in a 2-4 decision.

The Leathernecks opened the match with strong performances but ultimately lost the doubles point at No. 1 and No. 3. At No. 2 doubles, Chloe Routier and Nadezhda Petkova earned a 6-3 victory over SLU's Naima Luthra and Aryn Walker. 

At No. 1, Jessica Hess and Mana Fawcett a 6-3 loss to Madison Hill and Emmerson White. The No. 3 doubles pairing of Madeleine Whip and Richardlyne Francois fought hard but fell in a tight 7-6 decision.

SLU responded in singles action, winning three matches to claim the team victory. Chloe Routier picked up a straight-set win at No. 3 singles, defeating Madison Hill 6-3, 6-2. Nour Gueblaoui delivered a gritty three-set performance at No. 4 singles, defeating Naima Luthra 6-4, 3-6, 6-2.

SLU secured the three singles points. Emmerson White defeated Richardlyne Francois 6-1, 6-2 at No. 1 singles, and Fiorella Duran topped Mana Fawcett 6-0, 6-2 at No. 2. Aryn Walker earned a 6-3, 6-4 win over Denver Johnson at No. 6. The No. 5 singles match between Jessica Hess and Nicolly Ferreira ended in abandonment.

WIU moves forward after a strong doubles showing and key singles victories from Routier and Gueblaoui.

The Leathernecks will hit the road to face Omaha and Creighton on February 20 and 21. 

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