MURRAY, Ky. – The SIUE women's tennis team was looking to open its four-match road trip on a positive note but fell at Murray State Saturday.

Murray State defeated the Cougars 4-2 after more than a three-hour delay because of heavy rain at Purcell Tennis Courts. The Racers extended their Ohio Valley Conference record to 5-0, their best start in league play in nearly 10 years.

"Today was simply a day we did not play our best," said SIUE Head Coach Jason Coomer. "Give our opponent credit as they were a big reason for that."

SIUE fell to 6-8 overall and 1-3 in OVC play. The Cougars will look to rebound Sunday with a 1 p.m. road contest at Austin Peay.

The Cougars came out strong against the Racers, now 10-4 overall.

"You cannot be disappointed with the quick start we had today as our team played hard," Coomer said.

SIUE won the doubles point with two of three victories. SIUE's Monique Krutak and Sierra Halverson defeated Eleonore Tchakarova and Verginie Tchakarova 8-5 at No. 1 doubles. Kali Donner and Mia Frogner topped Murray State's Carla Suga and Megan Blue 8-6 at No. 3 doubles.

Monique Krutak

"We played some tough doubles points today and continue to improve in that area," said Coomer.

The Racers rebounded with four singles victories. SIUE's Lexi Aranda provided the lone singles point for the Cougars with a 6-4, 6-1 triumph at No. 2 singles over Suga.

"We're already focused on Sunday's match at Austin Peay and will be heading for another tough battle," said Coomer.