Women's tennis tops Spartans

The Michigan women's tennis team's victory over Michigan State yesterday was a comeback in every sense of the word. They came back from deficits in games, sets and matches, and ultimately won the competition, 5-4. With the victory, the Wolverines extended their winning streak over Michigan State to 12 games, a streak that dates back to 1989.

"Its been a long time since Michigan State has beat us," Michigan coach Bitsy Ritt said. "As the match progressed, we had the confidence advantage."

The competition began with Michigan State jumping out to a 2-1 lead after the doubles matches. To compound matters, Michigan's top player, senior co-captain Danielle Lund, didn't play singles due to tendonitis.

Even with victories from junior co-captain Brooke Hart and senior Jen Boylen, Michigan found themselves down 4-3 going into the final two matches.

Sophomores Szandra Fuzesi and Allison Sinclair willed victories out of near defeat. First, Fuzesi came back from a 5-2 deficit in the third set and even fought off four match points. She finally beat Nikki Skogerboe, 5-7, 6-3, 7-5.

"I could see the tables turn," Ritt said. "the Michigan State player started to lay off her shots a bit and Szandra started to make winners and control the match."

Then, in a long match played almost entirely in the backcourt, sophomore Allison Sinclair finished off Michigan State senior Brook Townscend, 6-4, 6-7, 7-5. Five hours after the dual competition started, neither the opponent, the fatigue, or the pressure could best Sinclair.

"Allison realized it all came down to her court," Ritt said. "I think she won because she wanted to be in that situation."

Next up for the Wolverines is a road trip to Penn State and Ohio State this weekend.

02-25-99