The Highlander women's tennis team suffered a tough loss on Tuesday against conference rival Alfred University. Alfred's defeat of Houghton has officially knocked them out of the running for the Empire 8 conference tournament, to be held October 12 and 13.

Alfred began the match with a commanding doubles lead, taking down senior pair Jentsch/Noller 3-8, followed by second doubles Carl/Haley also at 3-8. The third doubles match was highly contested, with Highlanders Cline/Moore falling in a tie-break (7-9).

Following doubles the Highlanders two singles wins came from Senior Kaylee Jentsch (6-2, 6-3) and Catie Moore (6-2, 1-6, 2-3 retired).

"That one hurts…" says Coach Tonya McGraner, "we needed that match. But all you can do is learn what you can and try to move forward in a positive direction."

The Highlanders return to play on the road against Utica at 1 p.m. on Saturday.