West Central Reporter

The Western Illinois women's tennis team faced a challenging semifinal match against Bryant University in the Ohio Valley Conference (OVC) championship. The team, known as the Leathernecks, was unable to overcome the Bulldogs, despite their efforts.

In the doubles competition, Western Illinois struggled against Bryant. The No. 1 doubles team, comprised of Nour Gueblaoui and Richardlyne Francois, was defeated 1-6. Paige Grice and Mana Fawcett, playing at No. 2 doubles, pushed their match to a tiebreaker but lost 6-7 (7-9). At No. 3 doubles, Chloé Routier and Lara Souza were narrowly defeated, 4-6, resulting in Bryant securing the initial point.

The singles matches also saw Bryant prevailing. Grice, competing at No. 3 singles, lost both sets 2-6, 2-6. Gueblaoui, at No. 5 singles, was defeated 2-6, 3-6. Routier, at No. 2 singles, fell in straight sets 2-6, 2-6, which gave Bryant the decisive fourth point.

Several matches were left unfinished due to Bryant achieving the necessary points to win. Francois, in the No. 1 position, was behind 1-6, 2-5. Souza split the sets 6-2, 1-6 at No. 4 before play was halted. Fawcett, competing at No. 6, lost the first set 4-6 and won the second 6-0 before her match was stopped.

Despite not advancing, the Leathernecks displayed resilience and potential during the postseason.