Feb. 6, 2011
LINCOLN, Neb. -
Illinois State vs. Nebraska Results 
Freshman Carolina Abello came close to giving Illinois State their only win Sunday, as the women's tennis team was defeated by No. 34 Nebraska, 7-0, at the Nebraska Tennis Center in Lincoln, Neb. The loss brings the Redbirds to an overall record of 0-3 on the season.
After losing all doubles matches and five of six singles matches, the Redbirds had a glimmer of hope as Abello rose to the competition against Frederike Putthoff. Losing the first set, 6-0, Abello rallied back to win six games but was defeated, 7-6, in the second set. Also stepping up to the competition, freshman Gabby Phillips gave Abby Buxton a run for her money, but lost, 6-4, 6-4.
Head coach Chris Hoover was proud of the freshmen and the effort they put into their matches.
"We played good singles," said Hoover. "We showed how competitive we are. Gabby came out and played some really good tennis and although she wasn't able to pull off a win, she should be proud of what she accomplished (Sunday). Carolina also really showed what she's made of. She picked it up and had a chance to win, which was great considering the level of competition we were playing against."
The loss to Nebraska put the cap on a weekend full of top-competition for the `Birds, after losing to No. 75 Wyoming Saturday. Although Illinois State was unable to come away with a win, Hoover still believes the team played some great tennis over the weekend.
"This weekend was tough for us," said Hoover. "It's discouraging to not win, but that is what happens when you play nationally ranked teams. They were more competitive then what we're used to but I think we really stepped it up and rose to the occasion."
The Redbirds will continue their season as they host IUPUI, Friday, Feb. 18 at 7 a.m., at the Evergreen Racquet Club in Bloomington, Ill.
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