Box Score

WINONA, Minn. — Back-to-back 8-1 victories over Bethel and Concordia had the Saint Mary's University women's tennis team on Cloud Nine.

Gustavus, however, knocked them right back down to earth.

The Gusties, who entered Sunday's Minnesota Intercollegiate Athletic Conference match ranked No. 13 in the nation, flexed their muscles and put a quick end to SMU's two-match winning streak with a 9-0 conference victory.

"We ran into a buzz saw today, no doubt about that," said SMU coach Jeff Halberg, whose team had won four of its last five matches heading into Sunday's showdown vs. the Gusties. "(Gustavus) is ranked No. 13 for a reason — they are a good team."

Good? That's an understatement.

Gustavus dropped just 12 games in the sweeping the six singles matches in straight sets. Shannon Cooney (Eden Prairie, Minn.) had the most success vs. the high-powered Gusties, dropping a 6-4, ,6-0 decision at No. 1 singles, while not other Cardinal won more than one game.

"The ladies have been playing very well lately — our wins over Bethel and Concordia were outstanding performances," said Halberg. "It's not that we played that poorly (against Gustavus), they are just such a strong team.

"I'm happy with where we are right now," added Halberg, whose women moved to 2-3 in the MIAC and 4-3 overall. "I'm sure the ladies are a little disappointed with the outcome, but we'll put it behind us and focus on the future."