NORTH NEWTON, Kan. – Concordia University, Nebraska Women’s Tennis battled through a challenging road test but couldn’t find the final points in a 2-5 decision to Bethel College (Kan.) on Friday (Feb. 28) at Ward Tennis Center. The Bulldogs showed resolve across the lineup, earning two singles victories and competing toe-to-toe in several tightly contested matches.
Concordia drops to 7-3 on the season.
“I could not be more proud of our team," Head Coach Lisa Hart said. “Losing is never fun. The way our guys fought for each other and the heart they showed was incredible to be a part of! This match will make us better. Credit to Bethel- very good competitors and very well coached.”
Concordia broke through in the heart of the order. At No. 4, Ishane Derman delivered a steady performance, defeating Grace Dawes, 6-3, 6-2, to secure the Bulldogs’ first point of the afternoon. Sophomore Chakira controlled play to garner her sixth singles win of the season and the 24th of her career.
No. 5 Alexa Richert followed with another strong outing, earning a 6-1 win in the first set over Patty Huerta. The junior kept pressure on throughout the match and closed out a competitive second set (7-5) to give Concordia its second team point. Richert has earned a four-match win streak in individual play.
The top of the lineup featured difficult challenges against an unbeaten Bethel squad. At No. 1, Mariana Molano faced Daniela Casique, while No. 2 Chakira Derman and No. 3 Alana Lopez Pagan each pushed through demanding two-set battles. No. 6 Nina Milic also fought for points in a physical contest with Jireh Gonzalez.
Doubles play set the tone early in the contest. Bethel claimed victories at No. 1 and No. 3, while the No. 2 doubles match was left unfinished with Bethel holding a 5-2 edge, giving the Threshers the early advantage heading into singles competition.
Bethel remains unbeaten at 4-0.
Concordia (7-3) moves on the will face Grand View University (Iowa), 0-2, at the Bulldog Tennis Courts on Friday (March 6). The Bulldogs will take first serve at 11 a.m. CT in Seward.