Box Score The Houghton University Women's Tennis team came out victorious Saturday afternoon with a big 7-2 win against Russell Sage College. The conference opener match puts the Highlanders in a strong opening position as they look to make another Empire 8 tournament appearance this Fall. 

The Highlanders took advantage of their home match getting off to a strong start in doubles. Chloe Esch and Elise Swanson paired up at the first position to win 8-2 and Clancey Cockle and Arija Grant rolled 8-0 at the third position. The second flight of Marilynn Amborski and Allie Leary fell just short 8-6 in a close contest in the second spot. In singles play, the Highlanders were able to come out victorious in five of the six matches. Esch would lead the way at second singles 6-0, 7-5 and Amborski would follow right behind her with a solid 6-2, 6-2 win on court three. Courts four and five would see some intense battles with both Leary and Gariana Valentin winning 6-4, 7-5 and 6-0, 3-6, 6-1 at fourth and fifth singles respectively. Finally, freshman Arija Grant would close out play with a tremendous 6-0, 6-2 performance. 

"Great way to start conference play," Coach Shilvock said post match. "The match was tighter than the scoreline appears and I am proud of the resiliency this group has shown all week long. On to the next!" 

The Highlanders (2-2) will enjoy the weekend off and will get right back at it against Oswego next Tuesday at 4pm.