LAS CRUCES, N.M. – The Western New Mexico University Men's tennis team started their season in a doubleheader against New Mexico State. The Mustangs fought to the end, before falling 6-1.
"It was great to start the season and see some exceptional talents," said Dakota Spillers. "I want to thank Coach Fernadez, Coach Vargas, and Coach Wang, for accommodating us. It is always something our student athletes look forward to."
The Mustangs had the Aggies on their heels. No. 1 doubles, Javier Romero (Tlalnepantla, Mexico/ETAC) and Patricio Larrea (Ambato, Ecuador/Atenas High School) were just edged out 6-4. No. 2 Brendan Lock (Cheyenne, Wyoming/Cheyenne South HS) and Yu Jhe Du (New Taipei City/Taiwan/Taipei Municipal Jianguo High School) fell 6-3 and No. 3 Lachlan Rowing (Canberra, Australia/Finigan School of Distance Education) and Paul Claussen (Balingen, Germany/Gymnasium Balingen) fell 6-1.
"The men came out firing on all cylinders," said Spillers. "This could have been an upset if some things fell in our favor."
In singles, the Mustangs found some success and were close to some wins. Four of six Mustangs pushed a third set. Du had the solo win, winning 7-6(5),6-7(5), 6-3. Larrea won the first 7-6(6), then the following two 6-4. Rowing had a tough first set falling 6-3, but bounced back winning 6-4, before losing the last set 6-3. Claussen was off to a hot start winning 6-0, but fell 6-1, 6-3.
Brendan Lock (Cheyenne, Wyoming/Cheyenne South HS) competed well in the No. 3 spot but fell 6-4, 6-2. At the one spot, playing very good Corey Clarke. Romero lost 6-1, 6-3.
"With the intensity today, I'm looking forward to the next couple of weeks," said Spillers."We are looking forward to facing them one more time this year."
The Mustangs will play Mesa Community College on February 4.
This game recap is presented by First American Bank. First American Bank is a proud supporter of WNMU Athletics!
Western New Mexico University is a member of the NCAA Division II, and the Lone Star Conference (LSC). For additional information regarding Mustang Athletics, visit www.wnmumustangs.com; visit wnmu.edu for more information about Western New Mexico University. Follow the Mustangs on social media: @WNMUathletics (Twitter, TikTok & Instagram).
