Yellow Jackets Lose Heartbreaker to Bethel College

DEFIANCE, Ohio – The Yellow Jacket tennis team hosted a non-conference match on Tuesday afternoon with the Pilots of Bethel College. The Jackets fell just short of claiming victory in the match as they lost by a score of 5-4, including two matches in super tiebreakers.

Defiance was able to jump out to an early 2-1 lead after doubles action. Senior Trevor Ault and freshman Ryan Nelson paired up for an 8-5 victory at the number one doubles spot. Austin Gray and Justin Walker also earned a win at three doubles winning by a score of 8-3.

Ault followed up his doubles win with a strong performance in singles action, as the senior cruised to a 6-2, 6-0 victory. The other DC victory came at the number four singles position as freshman Ryan Nelson pulled out a thrilling victory in a third set super tiebreaker. Nelson dropped the first set 2-6 but was able to rally in the second winning 6-3 and the tiebreaker by a score of 10-3.

The Jackets needed one more position to win to claim a victory in the match but was unable to do so. Gray and Craig Bills both managed to win their first sets but fell in second and the super tiebreakers.

The Purple and Gold are back in action on Wednesday, April 11 against Manchester College. The match is scheduled to begin at 4:00 p.m.