UA Women Nearly Perfect at First Day of South Regionals
10/17/2003 12:00:00 AM | Women's Tennis
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The University of Alabama women's tennis team wrapped up day one at the ITA South Regionals in Athens, Ga. with an impressive 5-1 mark in the six singles matches for UA players on Friday.
UA freshman Sonja Nikolic, after having a sub-par performance at the Roberta Alison classic, rebounded nicely scoring two three-set victories, including an upset of the No. 4 seed in the second round.
"Nikolic fought through some troubles and that was really big for her," Alabama head coach Jenny Mainz said. "She played six sets of tennis today and it was a big confidence booster to win two three-set matches."
Tide Sophomore Robin Stephenson triumphed easily over one of Mississippi State's top players, Anastasia Kugalaova.
"Robin (Stephenson) was definitely playing really offensive and took control early," Mainz said. "I really like the way she came out strong and really never let the other girl into the match."
"It was a strong first day," Mainz said. "We got stronger as the day went along, and hopefully that will carry over into tomorrow."
Complete Bama Results Follow:
First Round "A"
Melissa Minor (UA) d. Maria Nieto (Ga. Tech) 6-3, 7-6
Robin Stephenson (UA) d. Anastasia Kugalakova (MSU) 6-2, 6-2
Ana Rupic (South Alabama) d. Nathalie Koppelle (UA) 6-4, 6-1
First Round B
Sonja Nikolic (UA) d. Samona Soltyn (Ga. St.) 4-6, 6-0, 6-2
Mari Muller (UA) d. Erin Gray (AU) 6-3, 7-5
Second Round B
Nikolic (UA) d. Luisa Obando (South Florida) 3-6, 7-6, 6-1
