Tennis Routs SEMO in First Home Match, 5-2

COLUMBIA, Mo. – The University of Missouri (3-4) dominated Southeast Missouri State (1-2) in the team’s first home match on Friday, Feb. 18, 5-2.

Ellie Wright and Emelie Schwarte grabbed the first doubles win for Mizzou, taking down Ksenia Shikanova and Vivian Lai, 6-1. Bronte Murgett and Gabriela Martinez secured the doubles point for the Tigers with a victory over Myroslava Zelenchuk and Romana Tarajova, 6-2.

The Redhawks caught the first singles point, but Missouri remained unfazed. Murgett put the team back ahead with a 7-6, 6-4 success over Tarajova. Martinez was next to finish with a quick 7-5, 6-3 win. Finally, Wright clinched the match for Mizzou with a 6-2, 7-6 triumph over Zelenchuk. Elys Ventura added another point as she defeated Teona Velkoska, 6-3, 6-2. 

“This was a solid step in a positive direction tonight. The energy and crowd were electric and helped carry us to a very high level of play on all courts.” said coach Chris Wootton. “Every player on and off the court showed the energy and dedication to being a Mizzou Tiger! We were tough, gritty, and relentless; and that will continue to pay dividends over the season.”

The Tigers are back at the Mizzou Tennis Complex tomorrow at 2 p.m. to face the University of Central Arkansas.