Syracuse Tennis Beats Pittsburgh 4-3

By Brittany Ehrlich

SYRACUSE, N.Y. — Syracuse women’s tennis team beat the University of Pittsburgh 4-3 on Friday afternoon. The Orange had a rough start after losing the doubles point and staying close in many singles matches, but was able to come back for the win.

“I started up 4-1,” said sophomore Gabriela Knutson. “Then I got distracted. I got cocky and thought it was going well and started cheering on my teammates. I had that ‘oh no’ moment and knew I had to step it up.”

Knutson described the team has stressed and uptight in the beginning of the match and season.

“Coach has been stressing enjoying more,” she said. “We’re even more excited to go to practice.”

Freshman Miranda Ramirez had a close first set of her match winning 7-6.

“I tried to focus on my shots and take it one point at a time,” said Ramirez. “That helped me stay focused and play well on tough points.”

In doubles at the number one spot, Gabriela Knutson and Miranda Ramirez, were defeated 1-6. Maria Tritou and Anna Shkudon at the second spot also lost their match 4-6. Dina Hegab and Libi Mesh abandoned their match at 4-4.

Syracuse did pick up its game for singles though. Miranda Ramirez (7-6,6-2) at second singles, Gabriela Knutson (6-4, 6-2) at third singles, Libi Mesh (6-2, 6-2) at fifth singles, and Dina Hegab (6-1, 6-2) all won in two sets. Anna Shkudon at the first spot lost her match (1-6,5-7) along with Maria Tritou at the fourth spot (3-6, 3-6).

The Orange play again on Sunday, March 5 against Notre Dame at 10 A.M. at on the road. The Irish currently have a record of 10-1.