Ciaran Foley and Andy Martin won their number three position doubles match against Texas Techs Michael Innerebner and Johnathan John, 8-6, but for the second straight day Illinois State (2-3) only captured one match, as the Redbirds fell to the Red Raiders 7-0 today in Albuquerque.
The Birds lost their other doubles matches of the day, as Diedrik de Groot and Devin Wakeford defeated Djordje Uskokovic and Ben Pettinari 8-2 in the one spot, and Alfonso Perez and Esat Tanik beat Jason Smit and Marek Blaskovic 8-1.
The Redbirds lost all of their singles matches for the second consecutive day, but were able to pick up more sets than yesterday. In the number one spot, Dierderik de Groot defeated Illinois States Djordje Uskokovic, 2-6, 6-1, 7-6. Alfonso Perez was successful in the number 2 position as he defeated Jason Smit 2-6, 6-2, 6-2. In the number three spot, Esat Tanik took care of business against Redbird Marek Blaskovic 6-7, 6-3, 6-2, while in the number four position, Devin Wakeford overcame Ben Pettinari 6-2, 3-6, 6-1. Filling the number five position, Michael Innerebner beat Ben Cappuccitti, 6-1, 7-6, and John Walker escaped against Illinois States Ciaran Foley 6-7, 6-2, 6-2 in the six spot.
Despite the loss, coach Greg Kennett feels that his team improved on yesterdays performance.
We played better today than we did yesterday, said Kenett. We were able to pick up a few sets here and there, but we really need to focus and finish the job better.
The Birds next face off against Bradley and Depaul University February 22 in Peoria, Ill.
