SALEM, Ore. - - The University of Puget Sound men's tennis team faced a tough Northwest Conference test on the road, Saturday, falling 6–1 to Willamette University.

How It Happened

Doubles

Willamette took an early lead by sweeping the doubles point. At the number one position, the duo of Sebastian Silverstein and Gavin Dille put up a strong fight. The Loggers traded games early and kept the set within reach, but the Bearcats managed a late break to secure the 6–4 win.

At the No. 2 spot Sam Lowery and Aidan Kresko fell 6–3 to their opponents. Willamette claimed the No. 3  doubles point via walkover, entering the singles portion with the advantage.

Singles

The highlight of the day for the Loggers came at the top of the ladder. After dropping the first set 6-1, Dille shifted the momentum of the match and dug in for a grueling second set, forcing a tiebreaker and winning it 7–6 to send the match into a deciding third set tiebreaker. Dille showed composure, edging out the Bearcats 10–8 to claim the point for the Loggers.

The Bearcats proved deep across the remainder of the lineup. At the No. 2 position, Silverstein fell 6-2, 6-0 to Jake Bronson. Lowery battled at No. 3 singles but was unable to overcome Sohnosuke Sakaguchi, dropping the match 6-2, 6-1. Kresko rounded out the contested singles matches at the No. 4 spot, falling 6-2, 6-0 to Hudson Snyder. Willamette secured the final two points at No. 5 and No. 6 singles via walkover.

What Happens Next

The Loggers will return to Tacoma to begin a home stand next weekend. Puget Sound is scheduled to host Whitworth University on Saturday, March 7. First serve is set for 11:00 a.m. at The Barn.