By DONNY NADEAU
Saint Mary's Sports Information Director
 
WINONA, Minn. — As if playing two matches in a day isn't tough enough, having to play the second match against perennial Minnesota Intercollegiate Athletic Conference champion and nationally ranked Gustavus was one tall order for the Saint Mary's University of Minnesota men's tennis team.
 
The Cardinals did not have the firepower to match the high-octane Gusties, as Gustavus dealt Saint Mary's a 9-0 conference setback Saturday at the Winona Tennis Center.
 
"We competed well in doubles, but Gustavus is just so tough," said Saint Mary's coach Jeff Halberg, whose club dropped a 7-2 decision to Macalester to open the day Saturday. "Our guys put forth a gallant effort."
 
The Gusties had to work for their three wins in doubles play, posting 8-4, 8-5 and 8-2 decisions, before dropping just 14 games in sweeping all six singles matches in straight sets.
 
The Cardinals (0-4 MIAC, 2-5 overall) step out of conference play next Friday, heading to Madison, Wis., for a 5:30 p.m. match against Edgewood.