EDWARDSVILLE, Ill. - Senior Laura Horning was perfect on the day to help the SIUE women's tennis team avoid the sweep as the Cougars lost a 6-1 decision to the Racers of Murray State Friday afternoon at the SIUE Tennis Courts.

"It was not the result we were looking for," SIUE Head Coach Jason Coomer said. "We didn't play our best tennis, but we played hard."

On a bright and sunny day, Horning and sophomore partner Amanda Miller pulled out a thrilling 8-7 (8-6) victory over Murray State's Taylor Vick and Ashley Pierson at the No. 3 doubles position.

The win was not enough, as the Racers had already claimed the top two doubles spots to get the important doubles point and the early 1-0 lead.

Coach Coomer was impressed with the senior's ability to carry the momentum into singles where Horning cruised to a 6-1, 6-2 win over the Racers' Pierson at No. 4 singles.

"Laura continued on into singles and played very well for us today," Coomer added.

SIUE, now 5-10 overall, dropped the remaining singles matches as Murray State left with a 6-1 victory and improved to 8-12 on the year.

"We are going to have a focused week starting with community service in Edwardsville Saturday," Coomer said about preparing for the season finale. "Then we will have a strong week of practice and hopefully send our seniors out with a win on Senior Day."

The Cougars will host their Senior Day April 16 and close the 2010-11 season against the Hilltoppers of Western Kentucky.

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