Women's Tennis | 2/12/2011 9:00:28 PM

FREDERICKSBURG, Va. - The Methodist women's tennis team battled hard against nationally ranked University of Mary Washington, but fell 8-1 in the season opener.

Kaitlin Flaherty and Katherine Meindl started things off for the Monarchs with an 8-4 win at number one doubles, but Mary Washington came back to win the remaining eight matches for the win. Rachel Purser and Dana Powell lost 8-6 at number two while Laura Baker and Stacey Brooks lost 8-5 at number three.

Flaherty lost 6-1, 6-0 at number one singles and Kelli Shelton lost 6-0, 6-2 at number six. Purser lost 6-1, 7-5 at number three and Powell lost 7-5, 6-4. Meindl forced a third set, but lost 6-1, 4-6, 6-3 at number two. Baker lost 6-4, 5-7, 10-7 at number four.

The Monarchs are back on the road next weekend when they travel to Atlanta, Ga. to take on Oglethorpe, Covenant and Agnes Scott Feb. 19-20.

Box Score