April 14, 2007

Results

MILWAUKEE - The University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee women's tennis team bounced back from a 7-0 loss to Cleveland State Friday night to claim a 4-3 win over Youngstown State Saturday afternoon.

The Panthers (11-9, 3-4 Horizon) wrapped up the regular season by equaling their most overall victories since the 1996-97 season and likely securing their highest league finish since 1997-98.

Saturday's strong effort over the Penguins was sparked by freshman Ali O'Neal, who set a new school record with her 17th singles win of the season. She also teamed with Samantha Drews for a key doubles victory, giving UWM what later turned into the decisive point in the match.

Freshman Kelly Drvaric also came through with a win at #1 singles against YSU, while the Panthers also claimed a singles points thanks to a YSU default at #6 singles.

Meanwhile, the Panthers could never get on track Friday night against the Vikings, who won all six singles matches and all three doubles contests in claiming the win.

"Cleveland State was a solid team that just came in and pounded us," UWM head coach Matt McCaskill said. "But, it was a totally different story against Youngstown. Ali and Sam really set the tone for us with their doubles win, while Kelly and Ali came through in singles. We did just enough to make sure Youngstown couldn't overcome being a player short.

"This was a good way to cap off what has been a very good regular season. We'll now get rested and ready for some success in the league tournament."

That league tournament is set for April 28-29 in Indianapolis. A number of league schools still have matches to complete, meaning the bracket for the event will not be set until next weekend.