The Houghton College women's tennis team picked up their first win of the 2021 season Saturday evening, defeating the Sage Gators 6-3. After a tough loss earlier in the day, the Highlanders bounced back with great energy right from the start.

Elise Swanson and Erin Haley had a decisive 8-2 victory at 1st doubles to get the match underway. The 2nd tandem of Maddi Soth and Chloe Esch battled back from 3-7 down to take the match 8-7 (7-4) in a spectacular comeback.

Houghton would then carry the strong momentum built up in doubles into the singles action. At 1st and 2nd singles, Elise Swanson and Erin Haley each picked up strong 8-3 victories respectively. Maddi Soth secured a decisive victory at the 4th spot with a score of 8-1. At third singles Chloe Esch stayed headstrong in an 8-4 win, earning her first pair of victories as a Houghton Highlander and clinching the match decision. 

"The girls did awesome tonight. They came out with a ton of energy, fought really hard, and were able to carry the momentum from two big doubles wins into singles," Head Coach McGraner explained after the match. "I am really proud of the girls at 2 doubles for fighting so hard for their match, and the singles girls for playing with confidence. We are planning to take this momentum into the rest of our conference play!"

Houghton will look to build off their success next weekend when they take on Alfred University and Hartwick.