Photo by samsphotoservices.com

Thousand Oaks, CA – On Friday, the Oxy women's tennis team traveled to play the Cal Lutheran Royals. It was a hot day with temperatures hitting 97 degrees for the afternoon duel. The Tigers ultimately lost to the Royals 3-6 but they battled it out in the heat in several long matches. 

In doubles play, the #1 team had an early lead of 3-0. Andei Fukushige and Sarah Fleming were playing well but their opponents started to step up their game and play more aggressive at net. The Tigers were able to counter with their own net attacks, but ultimately lost the set 5-8. At #2, Alexis Matabuena and Dana Edson managed to take four games from the Royals. 

At #3 doubles the Tigers got a win. Xavi Campbell and Emma Silber stuck to their own game, playing clean and not giving up any easy points. They won 8-6.

In singles, there were several close matches. At #1, Fukushige hung in for most of her fast-paced match, but she eventually lost 4-6, 4-6. At #2, Fleming was tied up with her opponent numerous times during her match. With most of the rallies extended past five balls, she managed to finish off many points with a well-placed shot to a corner. Fleming fought off three match points but ultimately lost 5-7, 6-7 (6). 

At #3, Alexis Matabuena saw two tiebreakers in her match, both of which she won. It was a huge win for the sophomore, who kept her composure during the tight moments and managed to pull out some excellent angles. She won 7-6(4), 7-6(3). 

Xavi Campbell at #4 had a quick win for the Tigers, securing the match in straight sets 6-3, 6-1. At #5 and #6, Tilly Depery and Emma Silber both lost. Silber showed a good fight, however, and managed to take a 6-2 set off the Royals.