Kenny Reid and Thomas Modern won their match at No. 3 doubles, but Air Force used its depth to defeat Colorado College in a match that was much more competitive than the 7-0 score would indicate.
The Tigers nearly won the doubles point thanks to an inspired performance by
Brian Thirkell and
Evan Jonker, but Will Brown and Stu Coston prevailed in the tie breaker to claim a 9-8 (7-4) victory at No. 2 doubles.
“We knew coming into the match that it would be an uphill battle against the first and only Division I opponent we face all year,” head coach Naren Clark said. “With nothing to lose, we came out strong in the doubles and almost grabbed the point.”
The No. 1 doubles match was also close, with Alex Beaussart and James Tomlin posting an 8-5 victory against Dan Solomon and Nate Burt.
Thirkell nearly pulled off an upset at No.3 singles, taking the first set before losing to Tomlin in a tie breaker 5-7, 6-2, 1-1 (10-2).
Solomon suffered his first loss of the season at No. 1 singles, falling to Austin Francis 6-4, 6-1.
Sam Barnard won the same amount of games, but dropped a 6-1, 6-4 decision to Coston at No. 5 singles.
“Overall, everyone was pleased with our effort and excited about our ability to compete against a Division I program,” Clark said. “Even though it was a loss, I think it was a confidence builder going into our spring break trip to California next week.”
Colorado College will play Division III opponents for the first time when it travels to Southern California for Spring Break. The Tigers' next match will be March 18 at Occidental College.
Results
Doubles
Beaussart/Tomlin (AF) def. Solomon/Burt; 8-5
Brown/Coston (AF) def. Thirkell/Jonker; 9-8 (7-4)
Reid/Modern (CC) def. Epperson/Tope; 8-4
Singles
