Gutsy performance leads to 4-3 win for Men's Tennis

Box Score

NASHVILLE, Tenn.—Morehead State men's tennis stayed undefeated in OVC play on Friday afternoon with a 4-3 win against Tennessee State at Hadley Park.

The Eagles (4-7, 3-0) recorded their third straight win against OVC opponents and have won three of the last four matches overall. The Tigers (6-9, 0-3) remain winless against OVC foes.

Morehead State stumbled early, losing a point in doubles play, but the day was won during singles competition.

Senior Gabriel Ruiz continued his stellar ways against OVC opponents, battling with Shashank Nautiyal to a three-set victory. Nautiyal jumped out early in the first set to a 6-4 win, but Ruiz fought back to a 6-2 second set win to even the score. The third set played to a 7-6 victory for Ruiz, following a 7-2 tiebreaker. Seniors Nick Mercer and Garrett Mandrell claimed wins, defeating their opponents decisively in straight sets.

Sophomore Sebastian Penaloza came up with the fourth match victory, dismantling Grant Maddox in straight sets 6-3, 6-3.

Morehead State will look to continue its conference winning streak with a quick turnaround, as they take on Belmont at the Centennial Sportsplex at 1 p.m. ET Saturday.